Examines connections between children's social pretend play and their improvised classroom drama. Describes similarities and differences between language used to frame social pretend play and language used by teachers and students to frame the imaginary worlds of drama. (MM)

Details four developmentally appropriate dramatic play experiences for integration into the classroom curriculum to extend dramatic play into a classroom play experience. Provides guidance in turning dramatic play into a project, launching the play process, readying the performance, problem solving, playing the play, and enjoying the outcome.…

Notes that teacher education programs have a blind spot where drama is concerned. Comments on Paideia Proposal suggestions regarding drama teaching and student participation. Discusses role of imaginative play in child development and role of drama in integration of knowledge, integration of emotions, and release of expression in all arts. (MH)