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Objective:
Student group will identify the elements of oral and visual representation that are needed in creating a play and practice role playing characters in a play.

Materials Needed:
Microsoft Word or similar word processing program
Play guidelines

Estimated Time: 10 minutes of instruction and 50 minutes of project research

Procedure:
1.Sit with the students at a table away from the other students.

2.Re-read the directions in the guidelines sheet that was given to them.

3.Check for understanding by having students explain in their own words what they are to do.

4.Pass out a copy of Eric Carle's The Grouchy Ladybug or similar story with multiple characters. The copy should be in the form of a script with each of the character names on the left side and the dialogue on the right. Don't forget the narrator. Assign students to characters and take the role as narrator. Explain that you are all going to simply act out the story as if it were a play. Begin.

5.Ask the students what they thought of the "play". Ask them what made the play interesting. Try and get them to see how important it is for them to show emotion when they read in an attempt to convey to the audience what the character is feeling. Also suggest how props might help them to create the setting in which the story takes place.

6.Give the group the assignment of writing a 10-line story script where everyone has at least one line. The story can be about anything. They have 15 minutes to do this.

7.Answer any last questions, tell them to help each other, and raise their hands if they get stuck.

8.Inform them that once they are done with their practice play and have presented to the teacher, that they may begin their project.

Evaluation:
The teacher will assess the accuracy of their work, compliance with the directions, and taking an active role in the project.

Homework:
None.

Here's the Short Play Handout.

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