What Are the Benefits of Dramatization in the Classroom?

Dramatic play is a common component of the preschool years, and dramatization should not stop when children enter the traditional classroom. Watching or being a part of classroom dramatizations aids children in the process of learning.

Understanding Material

Watching a drama brings the material to life and makes it more accessible for students to process. Participating in a drama also assists students in empathizing with particular characters or types of people and understanding the reasons behind actions. In addition, dramatizations are often easier to remember than written works or lectures.

Active Participation

Dramatization gives students the opportunity to actively participate in their learning experience. The physical activity of moving around during a dramatic scene is helpful, as is the necessity of staying mentally involved in the scene as a participant rather than an onlooker.

Building Relationships

Students who work together dramatizing a story or situation build relationships with one another. Because drama is so open-ended, students need to listen to ideas of group members and work cohesively to present the drama. Students also gain confidence in their social skills as they participate as an integral member of the team.

References

• National Council of Teachers of English: Guideline on Informal Classroom Drama
• Indiana University School of Education: Using Drama and Theatre to Promote Literacy Development: Some Basic Classroom Applications