Drama Lesson Plan: Exploring Space through Drama

Year Level: Year 5

Curriculum Area: The Arts - Drama

Curriculum Level: Level 2 (Years 3-4 to Year 5-6) as specified in The New Zealand Curriculum

Duration: 40 minutes

Class Size: 26 students

Objective:
Students will explore the theme of space using dramatic expression and group work to build confidence and collaborative skills.

Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:
1. Collaborate effectively in groups to create and present a drama piece.
2. Use body, voice, and space to express ideas related to the theme of space.
3. Reflect on and discuss their own and others' performances with constructive feedback.

Resources:
- “Space” soundtracks for background during performances (optional)
- Props such as stars, planets made from cardboard
- Costumes like astronaut suits or alien antennae (optional)
- Space imagery for inspiration
- Video recorder or camera for playback review

Lesson Structure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

- Activity: Brief introduction to the theme of space and its connection to drama.
- Discussion: What do we know about space? (Discuss concepts like planets, stars, astronauts, etc.)
- Inform students that today’s activities will help them explore this fascinating theme through drama.

2. Warm-Up (5 minutes)

- Activity: "Meteor Shower"
- Divide the class into two groups.
- One group makes a circle facing outward; they are the planets.
- The other group, the meteors, will gently walk around the circle.
- On "impact," meteors gently tap a planet, and they swap roles.
- Purpose: This activity helps to energize the class and introduces them to using movement to express ideas.

3. Group Activity: Creating Space Scenes (20 minutes)

- Formation: Divide the class into groups of 4-5.
- Task: Each group is assigned a space-themed scenario (e.g., landing on a new planet, fixing a spaceship, meeting aliens).
- Development:
- First 10 minutes: Groups plan and rehearse their scene. Encourage them to think about how they can use their body, voice, and any available props.
- Next 10 minutes: Performances. Each group performs their short scene in front of the class.
- Guidance: Circulate among groups, offering tips on expression and use of space.

4. Reflection and Feedback (5 minutes)

- Activity: After each performance, ask the audience to provide positive feedback and one area for improvement.
- Discussion: How did it feel to perform? What was challenging? What did you enjoy about the other performances?

5. Conclusion (5 minutes)

- Discussion: Recap what was learned about drama and the theme of space.
- Reflection: Ask students to think about how they can apply today’s drama skills in other areas of learning.
- Closure: Offer a brief overview of the next lesson to build anticipation.

Helpful Links:

- The New Zealand Curriculum Online - Drama (external link)
- Space Soundtracks – Example (optional background music for performances)

Assessment:

- Formative assessment through observation during activities and note-taking on students' ability to work collaboratively and use dramatic techniques.
- Peer feedback during the reflection phase to encourage critical thinking and verbal communication skills.

Note:
Make sure to adapt the complexity of scenarios and language used to ensure it is appropriate for Year 5 students and aligns with their understanding and skills. Consider the cultural backgrounds and interests of your students to make the lesson engaging and inclusive.