Antisectarian

Session 1: Introduction to Sectarianism

PDF icon PDF file: Drama lesson ideas

PDF icon PDF file: Breaking Down the Wall

by Bruce Adam, Senior Lecturer, Department of Communication and Media Falkirk College

We would like to thank Bruce Adam for permission to reproduce his play for this website.

Session outline:

  • Introduction - framing the session.
  • Each activity has a time limit. This depends on the length of each lesson.
  • The usage of sectarian words and the language used should be monitored. The use any sectarian word / slang must be based on the content of the subject.
  • Teacher hands out the script from Bruce Adam for a short drama to introduce the main themes of sectarianism.
  • Each child reads script. The teacher asks for volunteers to read the script aloud.
  • Short discussion about the content.
  • Children are split into small groups 'a read through' is done by each group.
  • Children are asked to stand up to perform the drama within their groups.
  • One group is chosen to perform to the class.
  • Class discusses the performance, relationship of characters and the content of the drama.
  • Teacher leads a short review of what has been learnt.
  • Children are told that they will have to perform in groups a short drama about sectarianism for the last session of the series (the project). It will be their job to improvise and script the drama as the session progresses.

Learning 0utcomes - by the end of the session children will (lessons 1, 2, 3):

  • Use movement and mime (M & M) - move inventively and appropriately in a given space.
  • Using language - speak audibly and clearly, contribute to planning.
  • Investigating - sustain fairly complex roles.
  • Creating and designing - in response to the stimulus offer ideas which could be used to create the drama, going beyond the obvious stereotypes.

Extension activity

  • Children jot down what they have done in their journal.
  • Teachers may wish to consider if one of the targets could be to perform student scripts at morning school assembly as a way of raising anti-sectarian issues to the school.

HEALTH WARNING!

  • Be aware of language and class dynamics - in particular, any use of sectarian slang or words should be within context of the lesson.
  • The teacher is to gain trust of the children prior to the session and vice versa. Set up the classroom climate for positive interactions.