ABSTRACT

Learn how to use role-plays to bring history and literature to life! When students take on the roles of historical or literary figures, they develop a greater understanding of characters’ identities and motivations, and are able to more deeply explore and reflect upon key issues and themes. In this new book from award-winning teacher David Sherrin, you’ll find out how this lively instructional format will make teaching a more immersive, interactive, and memorable experience for your middle school and high school students. The book includes:

  • A clear how-to guide to get the most out of role-playing in your class;
  • Ready-made units and lessons to get you started right away, complete with sample scripts, scaffolding worksheets, and assessment rubrics;
  • Templates and step-by-step instructions to help you design your own role-plays.

The pre-made units, which Sherrin spent years refining in his classroom, cover historical topics such as the rise of Nazi Germany and the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs. You’ll also find fun and interactive role-plays based on literary works like The Pearl and Fences.  These lessons will help students at all ability levels to become better communicators, problem-solvers, and creative thinkers.

chapter

Introduction

Playing with Our Minds

part |48 pages

How To Role-Play: A Guide

chapter |20 pages

Creating Role-Plays

chapter |18 pages

Executing Role-Plays

part |158 pages

Examples of Historical Role-Plays

chapter |64 pages

The Aztec-Spanish Encounter

chapter |92 pages

Weimar and Nazi Germany

part |24 pages

Examples of Literature Role-Plays

chapter |20 pages

Fences, The Pearl, and More

chapter |2 pages

Conclusion