Drama education has big impact! The art of acting and performing arts is continuously evolving, and the research on the role of drama education is continually growing. Research continues to show that a well planned drama education positively impacts a students high school experience, impacting students’ growth, mindset and achievement. As we are part of the community of private schools in Burlington Ontario, and one with a special focus on the arts, ensuring our students are engaged in a robust drama and performing arts program is therefore essential.
Performing Arts, Drama and The Ontario High School Classroom
Drama and Performing Arts courses are offered as part of the Ontario Ministry Of Education Arts Curriculum, from grade 9 through 12. Private schools in Burlington Ontario that are ministry inspected and certified will offer in drama are inline with the current curriculum documents, expectations and standards. Here at Burlington Royal Arts Academy we are a ministry certified private school which means you can expect our programs to provide a robust selection of learning experiences designed to earn a credit toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
In Ontario, drama courses focus on teaching the art of acting and performance. In a drama class, students typically learn how to develop their acting skills, express themselves through movement and speech, and understand the principles of storytelling and stagecraft. In addition to teaching acting techniques, drama classes provide students with opportunities to practice their skills through performances, rehearsals, and group activities.
The benefits of a drama class extend beyond meeting curriculum expectations, as an education that includes performing arts has been shown to positively impact a student’s well being. By enrolling in a high school drama class, students can gain confidence, improve their communication and teamwork skills, all while developing a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.
What Makes A Great Drama Class
A private arts school worth investing in is not one that simply looks at the arts as a one-dimensional medium. Robust arts programming should be able to help students to:
- Tie science and arts subjects together and use ‘arts’ as a lens to improve their drama learning
- Portray their learning and dive into acting with their experiences and artistic elements
- Work together and create a solid group dynamic while building comfort and familiarity
- Hone their creative problem-solving skills via the medium of the arts and transfer these learnings into any job/position
- Build a community with peers and engage in relationship-building
- Ultimately talk clearly, authentically, and with purpose
In a nutshell, an effective drama class is one that provides students with a well-rounded education in the theatrical arts while also fostering creativity, self-expression, and teamwork.
Burlington Royal Arts Academy‘s Drama Class Essentials:
- Warm-up exercises: We start each class with a fun and engaging warm-up exercise that helps students relax and prepare for the lesson. This could include breathing exercises, stretches, or vocal warm-ups.
- Role-playing: Role-playing is a great way to get students to step outside their comfort zones and into different characters. It helps them develop empathy and understand different perspectives.
- Script analysis: Analyzing scripts helps students understand the structure of a play and the motivations of the characters. Using short scenes and monologues for students read and analyze them together is a great way that we learn collaboratively.
- Ensemble building: Ensemble building exercises help students learn how to work together as a team. This could include games like “Zip, Zap, Zop” or “Pass the Clap.”
- Movement exercises: Movement exercises help students develop physical awareness and coordination. With simple exercises like mirroring, students begin to develop and awareness of body, shape and movement in space.
- Character development: Developing a character helps students understand the motivations and emotions of the character they are playing, while alllowing the students to explore their creativity and develop their own unique style.
- Supportive and safe environment: Focusing on offering constructive feedback and encouragement to students creates a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable taking creative risks and expressing themselves.
The Takeaway:
Dramatic arts is an important part of a students growth and development in the high school years with the ability to impact academics, interpersonal skills and confidence. Through a well thought out and purposeful drama classroom, students can experience a safe and supportive environment where they feel comfortable taking risks and exploring their creativity. If you’re ready to explore the world of acting an are considering attending one of the Burlington private schools, consider visiting Burlington Royal Arts Academy to see what we offer.
