ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to demonstrate how drama can be used in the primary school to enhance the teaching of literacy and language with a view to improving learning. Having provided an introductory overview of how drama has developed and changed during the past 60 years, drama’s role today is described and a summary of current research areas provided. The chapter then focuses on drama research specific to language and literacy by describing three small-scale studies designed around: drama and oracy; drama and reading; and drama and writing. The classroom implications are discussed, and a case made for the inclusion of drama activities in the Literacy Hour. The link resource provides a flow chart to assist with planning drama activities relating to the exploration of texts.
