Sample Activities / Learning Standards

Downloadable Resource Guide (.pdf)

In Brief

3rd Grade Workshop – Story in Motion
Story in Motion begins the workshop series with an exploration of the structure of stories and the various means by which stories, ideas and feelings are communicated. Students will discuss how details make the difference in creating a story. Various exercises will help the students discover that stories, in all their forms, communicate ideas and feelings. The actor will explain that all good stories share four important characteristics: characters who want something, obstacles that keep the characters from what they want, setting, and a clear beginning, middle and end. Throughout the workshop, students will explore the stories pictures can tell. Working with the actor, students will create a series of pictures and effectively put the story in motion.

4th Grade Workshop– Acting is Believing
Acting is Believing will introduce students to the profession of acting and the training necessary to become an actor. Your students will learn that an actor must become a master of three specific skills: Concentration, Observation and Cooperation. Lead by our actor, the class will participate in a series of exercises designed to hone these acting skills. Time will also be dedicated to learning how an actor obtains a job and the tools necessary to work as a professional actor.

5th Grade Workshop – Producing the Play
Producing the Play is the culminating experience of the Careers in the Arts Workshop Series. With guidance from one of our actors, students will produce their own version of the short play, Lewis and Clark. The actor will discuss what theatrical production involves and the many jobs that are involved in bringing a play to life. Serving as Producer, the actor will assign job responsibilities to the students. The students will rehearse the piece, create the props and small costume items and ultimately perform the play. A discussion of how each person is important to the process and the need for cooperation concludes the workshop.
 

Teacher Comments

“Lani definitely knew classroom management strategies which is extremely important. She was well-prepared, knew her material, was quick to set up and leave. Being prompt and leaving on time too is imperative to a teachers' schedule. The presentation will tie in nicely to our writing units about finding an idea and developing it to form an adequate picture.”
- H. Houle, Middlesex Valley Elementary, Marcus Whitman CSD

“Daniel's presentation of the 5W's and objective of the story are very appropriate to our writing program. This activity helps reinforce the conversations/lessons the class has been receiving concerning their own writing pieces. He presented in a very enthusiastic/energetic way.”
- T. Clark, Elizabeth Cady Stanton Elementary, Seneca Falls CSD

“ Students enjoyed being part of a production. The content matched our curriculum perfectly. The actor had a great sense of classroom management”
- J. Church, Wheeler School, Onondaga CSD