Back in the swing of things...

It has been such fun to see all of students back at school and ready for another great year! I want to share with you the different units we are starting at each grade level in drama and movement classes.

Kindergarten and first grade students are learning all about dramatic movement in drama class. We are beginning with games and activities that reinforce the concept of body awareness and then moving on to rhythmic and energetic movement games. The goal is for students to be in control of their bodies and be able to use them to express character, emotion and energy to the audience.

Students in the second grade are beginning a unit on perception and expression. The first focus is on observation, concentration and memory. The games and activities are designed to develop a new kind of sensory awareness, one in which the actor's bodies make visible for the audience what is not visible.

Third, fourth and fifth grade students are practicing the art of pantomime acting; acting without speaking or using any props. Students in the third grade are learning the basic skills of pantomime, while the fourth and fifth graders are practicing more advanced techniques. Pantomime is one of the most difficult styles of acting to master, but it provides students with the means to develop confidence and stage skills without worrying about dialogue, projection and the use of hand props.

In movement class we have kicked off a unit called Perceptual Power! This unit helps to establish the class environment and behavioral expectations while teaching motor development concepts such as body and spatial awareness, non-loco motor and loco motor skills, directionality, levels and rates of movement.

As always if you have any questions about the drama or movement program at Open Window School, don't hesitate to contact me at lisae@ows.org.

Enjoy the second week back at school!

Lisa