| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Drama |
| What age group | Year or Grade 8 |
| What topic | Issue based theatre exploring Brecht |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
To introduce students to the concepts of issue-based theatre and the techniques of Bertolt Brecht, emphasizing how theatre can inspire social change.
Start with the classroom set up in two distinct sections. On one side, arrange desks normally as they would be in a typical classroom. On the opposite side, create an "invisible wall" using a large piece of sheer fabric or a long piece of clear plastic that students can see through but not touch. This represents both a physical barrier and a metaphorical one.
Introduction (5 minutes)
Greet the students and introduce the topic of issue-based theatre and Brecht. Briefly explain how Brecht wanted theatre to provoke thought and encourage audiences to reflect on societal issues rather than just immersing themselves in a story.
The Setup (10 minutes)
Invite students to stand in front of the "invisible wall." Explain that they are now part of an experiment. Ask them to think about an issue that feels like a barrier in their lives or society in general (e.g., bullying, climate change, inequality).
Thought Provocation (5 minutes)
After giving them a moment to think, have each student silently gesture toward the invisible wall, expressing their feelings about the barrier they perceive in the world. Encourage different gestures – some might pound on the wall, while others may lean against it, or simply look through it longingly.
Group Reflection (10 minutes)
Once everyone has had a chance to express themselves, gather the students back in a circle. Ask them to share their experiences and thoughts about the barriers they've envisioned. Guide them to consider questions such as:
Transition to Brecht (5 minutes)
Conclude by relating these barriers to Brecht’s ideals in theatre. Explain that just as they used their gestures to express their thoughts and frustrations, Brecht aimed for the audience to be actively engaged and critical about the theatre they watched. His goal was to encourage them to think deeply about these social issues and inspire change.
By using this engaging method, students will already be interacting emotionally with the theme of the lesson before you dive deeper into Brecht's techniques. This sets a vibrant tone for the remainder of the class, readying them to explore further into issue-based theatre and the innovative styles of Bertolt Brecht.