THE THEATER ARTS AND TEACHING OF SECOND LANGUAGE

• Main Author: Smith, Stephen M (Author)
• Format: Book
• Language: English
• Published: Reading, MA Addison-Wesley, Cop. 1984
• Subjects: Theater in art
• Online Access: Click Here to View Status and Holdings.

 This practical and theoretical guide to the use of theater arts in foreign language teaching contains exercises, techniques, and fundamental theory for teachers at all levels of foreign language instruction, but particularly for those teaching adults and adolescents at intermediate or higher levels. An introductory section outlines common principles and parallels between the theater arts and foreign language teaching (goals, obstacles, strategies, and the development of group communication skills). The second section discusses language teaching in the drama rehearsal, focusing on language teaching strategies (director's strategies and language practice of all skills). A section on theater techniques for the language classroom looks at observation, character study, the voice, the body, practicing communication strategies, and scene work. This section also includes three sample simulations, with teacher instructions. The fourth section addresses play production for language learning groups, organizing and directing your own theater group (steps and considerations, the rehearsal period, and opening night). A list of recommended readings and classroom materials is appended. (MSE)