Interdisciplinary Arts 0272 - Reader's Theatre for Children

Do you remember being read to as a child? Reading your first book out loud? How can the energy, excitement, and enthusiasm of telling tales, story dramatization, and ultimately reading aloud be harnessed, maintained and encouraged through theatre? The first step in the progression towards theatre is the child's natural tendency towards pretend play and storytelling. This class will examine reader's theatre as a way to engage children in the act and art of literacy. Students in this course will consider how arts integration, theatre education, and critical literacy methodologies that can enhance the storytelling process. We will then examine reader's theatre scripts and finally write and perform reader's theatre pieces with children at a local elementary school. Along the way, students will build upon their abilities to communicate stories theatrically. Prerequisite - some prior work with children, education, theatre preferred.

Independent Work Writing and Research Multiple Cultural Perspectives Field trips expected -- no out-of-pocket expenses. Prerequisite: Some coursework in theatre and/or education. In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, creative work, and group assignments. Additional time will be spent working on a community engaged learning project.