DRAMA LITERACY PROGRAM

It is an undisputed fact that cutbacks in funding have resulted in Portland public schools with limited or no performing arts, specifically for elementary school students. In addition, classrooms have become increasingly saturated by students demanding more from current curriculum—particularly, children with learning or behavioral difficulties and children from diverse cultural backgrounds. The necessity to implement a diverse curriculum for these students is most apparent in literacy. Educators have long been seeking ways to increase not only literacy but also the relevancy and love of literature in the lives of youth as they are continuously bombarded with tempting visual stimuli in the forms of video games, television and computers. Performing arts is the missing link in the scholastic discipline of teaching literacy effectively to all students.

Goals of the Drama Literacy Program

• to provide youth a theatrical opportunity to put into direct practice literacy skills learned in the classroom
• to express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment
• to experience their imaginations being celebrated and encouraged
• to offer opportunities to increase their self-confidence and enhance their self-esteem
• to improve their communication and interpersonal skills
• to focus and be disciplined in their approach to acting and text comprehension
• to increase their ability to work collaboratively
• to appreciate other cultures and ideas
• to foster community by bringing the families together in celebration of each student’s achievement with free performances

We firmly believe that taking part in the creation of a play offers young people a unique experience that will boost their literacy skills, their confidence and creativity, their ability to work collaboratively, and their interpersonal skills - all of which are major assets that will serve them well in the future.

Drama Literacy program at Grout Elementary School

The program operates daily, Monday through Thursday, for three hours each day (broken into four 45 minute segments). Each group of Kindergarten and 1st grade students participates in a two-week course. For 2nd through 5th grade groups, the program is extended to five-six weeks. During this time the students work on reading comprehension, dramatizing text, articulation, vocal projection, character development, stage movement, ensemble building, and problem solving. The 2nd-5th grade students also work on a play that is adapted specifically for each group and is suited to their level of reading and comprehension. At the end of each 5-6-week term, each group gives three free performances: for their entire school; a night time performance for their parents; and a special performance at a local retirement center.

BRING THIS PROGRAM TO YOUR SCHOOL

The 2009-2010 school year marks the seventh year this program has been running at Grout Elementary in Portland. It also is now in its third year at Lewis Elementary.

If you are interested in bringing this program to your elementary school, please contact New Moon Productions. We will be happy to discuss the details of the program with you!