ABSTRACT
An elementary classroom is a space created for learning. It is a space where students learn to ask questions, seek out solutions, and ultimately learn to make meaning of the world around them. This chapter argues that theatre and process drama afford students the opportunity to explore, question, and experiment. It presents a vignette from a first-grade classroom that demonstrates an integrated drama and literacy lesson. It also discusses the processes, literacies, and texts used to meet both literacy and drama goals; and also how the integration of the theatre with literacy impacts learning. Process drama provides students with a tool to explore the human experience. As students engage in creating process drama, they have opportunities to reflect and make meaning of their lives. Creating drama in the classroom happens through thoughtful and skillful guidance by the teacher. The teacher also must understand that in addition to foundational literacies, there are particular literacies necessary to participate in process drama.
