Engaging with DNA

Overview

This 45-minute practical lesson introduces students to the themes and basic plot of the play DNA by Dennis Kelly. The lesson aligns with the UK National Curriculum for Drama, focusing on Key Stage 4 outcomes, particularly in exploring social issues, character development, and the ethical dilemmas posed in contemporary drama.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Identify and summarise the key themes of DNA.
2. Understand the basic plot structure of the play.
3. Engage in practical exercises that explore character motivations and ethical dilemmas.

Curriculum Framework

• National Curriculum: English Drama, Key Stage 4
• Assessment Objectives: AO1 (Create, develop, and communicate ideas), AO2 (Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre), AO3 (Respond to and analyse texts).

Resources Needed

• Copies of selected excerpts from DNA
• Whiteboard and markers
• Props for activities (e.g., simple costumes, chairs)
• Paper and pens for reflection

Lesson Structure

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Warm-up Activity:
  • Start with a quick physical warm-up to loosen up (e.g., stretching and breathing exercises).
  • As they warm up, ask students what they know about contemporary issues in society and how that may influence drama.

Exploring Themes (15 minutes)

1. Discussion:

   • Outline the key themes in DNA such as morality, peer pressure, and the consequences of actions.
   • Encourage students to contribute their thoughts on these themes, discussing their relevance in today’s society.

2. Group Activity:

   • Divide the class into pairs and assign each pair one theme from the play.
   • Instruct students to think of a short 1-minute skit that encapsulates their theme using only body language and facial expressions.

3. Performance:

   • Let each pair perform their skit for the class.
   • After each performance, facilitate a brief discussion on the theme highlighted and its connection to DNA.

Understanding the Plot (10 minutes)

1. Creative Plot Summary:

   • Provide students with a brief synopsis of the plot.
   • Split them into small groups (3 students per group) and have them create a “storyboard” on paper, outlining the key events of the play in chronological order.

2. Gallery Walk:

   • Each group places their storyboard on the wall.
   • Allow 5 minutes for students to walk around and view each other’s work, encouraging them to jot down any interesting points or discrepancies they notice.

Practical Application (10 minutes)

1. Role Play:

   • Select a critical scene from DNA where a moral decision is made.
   • Have students read through the scene as a class and then assign roles.
   • Students should explore different interpretations of character motivations and ethical dilemmas through improvisation.

2. Reflection:

   • Following the improvisation, facilitate a roundtable discussion about how they felt playing their characters and the moral complexities presented.

Conclusion and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Group Reflection:

  • As a class, reflect on what they learned about the themes, characters, and moral questions in DNA.
  • Encourage students to express how this exploration may influence their understanding of both the play and similar real-world situations.

• Homework:

  • Ask students to write a short paragraph (150-200 words) about what theme they found most interesting and why. This can help formalise their understanding and encourage critical thinking.

Assessment

• Monitor participation in group activities and discussions.
• Evaluate the quality of thematic skits and storyboards.
• Review homework submissions to assess comprehension and personal reflection on the themes discussed.

Additional Notes

• Ensure to adapt activities for any students with specific learning needs.
• Encourage inclusivity by ensuring all voices are heard, emphasising that drama benefits from diverse perspectives.

This lesson plan aims to foster an engaging, thought-provoking introduction to DNA that encourages students to connect personally with the material while fulfilling UK education standards effectively.