Why use drama in the English classroom?

When we use drama, and take away the emphasis from linguistic accuracy and focus on creating meaning, solving dramatic problems, etc., we actually find that this leads to language improvement.

To start off with, students do not feel the pressure that a more formal learning situation might create and thus they learn without realizing due to the more play-like and personalized nature of the task.

Also, traditional teaching methodologies focus on the individual, even sometimes creating a competitive atmosphere.

On the other hand, in the drama classroom the work is usually done in groups, and students get to teach and learn from each other.

Children learn from their peers new structures, words or expressions whist bring out those they were unaware they knew by being so involved in the process and trying to be understood.

In the day to day classroom, students feel the desire to please the teacher through their correct usage of language but, from what I’ve seen, in the drama class students want to do well for a project they feel fully identified with, and as a result, fully involved in.

Instead of having to memorize or repeat unnatural set phrases, drama facilitates spontaneous language learning in a more contextualized environment and making it student-centered and meaning-centered. It also gives the students the possibility for individual expression and group negotiation, whilst simply having fun. I bet we all agree our students deserve it!