I started introducing drama activities into my ELT classroom many years ago with my Very Young Learners (VYL) and Young Learners (YL). I used to carry a box filled with objects—a hat, an apron, a cape—and… it was Showtime! I allocated roles, set up the scenery, and my students were immediately up on their feet, ready to take part, to speak, to sing, and to act.
It was so easy to prepare, and my students were super excited to use the language for communication. Of course, before performing for real, I taught my students the vocabulary and grammatical structures they needed for the dramatic play through flashcards, songs, and rhymes.
Over the years, I created the English Drama Method, which is based on Educational Drama. It’s a fantastic way of teaching English effectively through drama activities and techniques. Now, my students of all ages learn English through this method. They acquire new vocabulary and grammar points through drama activities, storytelling, role-playing, games, songs, raps, and rhymes. My students revise vocabulary and grammar through drama. My older students improvise on given topics, take part in debates, engage in creative writing, and utilize drama techniques. They become storytellers, change the endings of stories, act them out, and create their own narratives.
Drama Works Miracles
Drama truly boosts students’ confidence, supports language acquisition, and encourages active participation. It keeps students engaged and curious, urging them to work together in groups. Drama fosters communication and cooperation. Students become confident communicators and develop their listening, speaking, and writing skills. Additionally, they cultivate life skills such as collaboration, creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving. As a result, they succeed in their English exams, having practiced the language in various situations and contexts.
As I incorporate drama into every lesson in my English schools, I wholeheartedly recommend that teachers start using drama activities to make their lessons effective and meaningful. I am hooked on drama because I have seen the positive results in my students’ academic performance, achieving high scores in Cambridge exams, as well as in their personal growth. It assists and supports them in believing in themselves, trying out new things, speaking and performing in front of a large audience, and enjoying the learning journey alongside their classmates.
