ABSTRACT

This text is meant for gifted program, talent development, or enrichment program teachers in upper elementary and middle school settings who are anywhere in the range of novice to expert on the subject of Shakespeare. Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and A Midsummer Night's Dream are the anchor texts for this standards-based curriculum that can be used in its entirety. Or, because each chapter is an individual standards-based module, certain modules can easily be selected to design a Shakespeare unit that meets individual program needs. Chapter 3 explains how learning goals related to character, plot, and setting can be addressed within the context of exploring Shakespeare. Creating tableau, SCAMPERing the plot, mapping out a plot created by alternate character choices, and resetting Shakespeare's works are some of the explorations students can engage in to learn about Shakespeare's story elements. The chapter features standards-based assessments, student-centered and collaborative learning activities, possibilities for technology integration, teaching examples from the original Shakespearean texts, as well as teaching advice delivered in a humorous, warm, and supportive tone.