Christmas Holiday IB PYP Drama Circles Literacy Activity

Drama and the Holiday season! It brings out the risk-taking, creativity in all kids and everyone has so much fun! These printable cards are just one of my drama circle activities that I use to practice the trans-disciplinary skills of cooperation, social, communication and thinking to name a few. One card begins the round and each child has to act out the instructions on their card, following on from the previous card. It is great for literacy centers activties as well as cooperative group work.

This drama was designed for my 5th graders as a fun review of the speaking and listening strands. The theme is around a story of working together to create a giant snowman, with humour added.

Simply gather the children into a seated circle, shuffle the cards and distribute a card to each child. The start card leads the way and the children have to read their own instructions on their card and then listen and look for the actions and words from the acting of each person so that they know when to take their turn. This is developing listening and observational skills as well as communication, presentation and thiking skills. Not every card requires speaking; some ask only for miming. The stars marked with a gold star are less wordy and better to use with struggling readers or ELL kids. I usually review the card with these kids prior to the circle.

There are 24 cards within this packet, an instruction card and title card for your centers if you wish. I have also included additional blank cards for your own use. The drama cards can be used for 4th-6th grade and used within a whole class scenario or smaller groups, where the children are given several task cards to read and act from.

The concept of drama circles I a great ice-breaking activity or a fun review of the IB skills. It works well as a refresher of the ATL skills prior to the Exhibition also.

You can find more ideas and freebies for the IB PYP on my blog PYPteachingtools.com

Enjoy!

~ Susan Powers