Drama Schemes, Themes & Dreams: How to Plan, Structure, and Assess Classroom Events That Engage All Learners

This remarkable collection of resources shows teachers how to guide their students through the drama process.

Drama Schemes, Themes & Dreams offers a comprehensive outline of improvisation and interpretation strategies that teachers can incorporate in classroom instruction. Organized around universal themes that invite students to make connections to texts and to each other, the book encourages students to consider their own identities and their place in the world.

Each chapter is organized around a framework that will engage students as they experience a wealth of dramatic activity. This practical and useful book features a host of sources for improving classroom instruction, including scripts, monologues, poetry, novel excerpts, and visual images. Strategy Schemes provide a framework for structuring the learning. Pieces written expressly for inclusion in this book are contributed by experienced educators and artists. The selected strategies enrich the meaning-making, creative process, and critical skills that students need to succeed in school and in life.

New and experienced teachers in all subject areas will find the help they need to create meaningful and innovative learning opportunities for all learners.

Larry Swartz has explored literature-based learning with students and teachers for more than 30 years in North America, England, New Zealand, and China. As a classroom teacher, consultant, and instructor with OISE/University of Toronto, he has inspired colleagues and children alike to learn in new and exciting ways. Larry is a well-known speaker and workshop leader. The author of the classic The New Dramathemes, his other books include The Novel Experience, The Picture Book Experience, The Poetry Experience, and Good Books Matter.
Debbie Nyman has been a drama teacher and consultant for the past three decades for the Toronto District School Board. She has been involved in the development documents at the board and provincial level. As a course instructor at OISE/University of Toronto, Debbie has provided experienced and novice teachers with practical and creative strategies to enrich their classroom practice. Debbie has also shared her extensive drama experience through hundreds of practical workshops for educators, administrators, and young adolescents.