The English Teacher's Drama Handbook

‘Imaginative and innovative…English teaching is hard work and a text that proposes different approaches is to be welcomed; drama suits English teaching well and a book that de-mystifies some of the strategies within the very specific language and needs of the English classroom would be very useful.’

‘Comprehensive and wide ranging…a ‘one stop shop’ for this topic…This would be a main text on a reading list for PGCE English students.’

‘This book could solve the challenge that many providers face who are not experienced in drama.’

Drama is an integral part of the National Curriculum for English and from Key Stages 1-5 English teachers are expected to incorporate drama skills and content into their lessons. Yet little time is afforded to drama provision in the training of English teachers, and many experienced English teachers lack confidence in incorporating successful drama teaching strategies into their lessons.

The English Teacher's Drama Handbook tackles this head on by providing a comprehensive, authoritative guide to help English teachers appreciate the powerful ways in which drama can encourage deep learning through the media of speaking, listening, reading and writing.

It explores the development of drama pedagogy, the strong links between English and drama, and how drama content and skills can help implement learning theories of key thinkers. Key chapters are presented in two parts, the first showing how and why drama can enhance teaching, the second offering a practical scheme of work to show strategies in action:

• Oracy and drama
• Reading and drama
• Writing and drama
• Teaching literature through drama
• Working playscripts
• Exploring language through drama

Including practical suggestions for lessons and a glossary of key terms and major thinkers, The English Teacher's Drama Handbook is an essential guide to successful drama strategies for the English classroom.