Sharing Our Stories

Lesson Overview

This lesson is designed to culminate the unit "Drama Against Bullying." Students will showcase their short plays tackling themes of bullying, followed by a reflective discussion. Learners will explore the impact of their performances and the relevance of empathy within social contexts.

Duration

60 minutes

Class Size

25 students

Age Group

12-13 years

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Demonstrate their understanding of the thematic elements of bullying through performance.
2. Reflect on their experiences and learning about empathy in real-life situations.
3. Recognise the significance of using drama as a tool for social change.

Curriculum Links

• National Curriculum for England (Drama):
  • Work collaboratively to create and perform drama that communicates concepts and ideas.
  • Reflect on and evaluate their own and others' performances.
• PSHE Education:
  • Develop skills to manage relationships and deal with bullying.
  • Promote understanding of emotions through creative expression.

Materials Needed

• Performance scripts from each group
• Space for performing (drama studio or classroom)
• Reflection journals or sheets
• Whiteboard and markers
• Props or costumes relevant to student performances (if available)

Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Warm-up Activity:

   • Quick energiser: "Empathy Circle" where students stand in a circle and share one positive trait about the person on their right. This promotes an atmosphere of respect and support.

2. Objective Sharing:

   • Explain the purpose of the lesson: to perform and reflect on stories about bullying and empathy.

Performance Time (30 minutes)

1. Group Performances (25 minutes total):

   • Each group (4-5 students) performs their play (approximately 3-4 minutes each).
   • Encourage classmates to be supportive audience members.

2. Transition Between Groups (5 minutes):

   • Allow time for each group to rearrange props and prepare.
   • Play soft background music during transitions to maintain a positive atmosphere.

Reflection Session (20 minutes)

1. Guided Reflection (10 minutes):

   • Use open-ended questions:
     • What did you learn from your performance?
     • How does it feel to portray the character involved in bullying?
     • What emotions did you experience while watching others?
   • Encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings around the themes presented.

2. Journaling (5 minutes):

   • Students write down one key takeaway from the performance and reflection discussion in their journals. Prompt them to consider:
     • How can we apply what we learned to our own lives?
     • What actions can we take to support our peers?

3. Group Sharing (5 minutes):

   • Invite volunteers to share their reflections with the class.
   • Highlight recurring themes or insights to reinforce community learning.

Assessment

• Monitor students during performances for engagement and understanding.
• Review journal entries for depth of reflection and personal growth.
• Observe participation in the discussion to assess comprehension and empathy development.

Differentiation Strategies

• For students needing additional support, provide outlines to help structure their reflections.
• Encourage advanced students to mentor peers by offering constructive feedback during performances.
• Allow for varied forms of expression in reflections, such as drawing or role-play, instead of writing for those who may find it difficult.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Summarise key points discussed in reflection.
• Reinforce the importance of empathy and the role of drama in addressing social issues like bullying.
• Thank students for their commitment and creativity throughout the unit and encourage them to continue advocating for positive change in their community.

Notes for Teachers

• Maintain an open, safe environment where students feel comfortable sharing and expressing themselves.
• Be prepared to manage emotional responses, as themes of bullying can evoke strong feelings. Offer support as needed.

This lesson concludes the unit on "Drama Against Bullying," aiming to leave students with lasting insights and the potential for continued advocacy.