Discusses use of dramatic play as a vehicle of instruction in the mother language. It is suggested as a means of developing oral self expression, social intercourse, and cultural appreciation. (DD)

After reading a short story, a sixth grade class became involved in an avid discussion, a debate, and dramatic play - all based on the short story. A vast amount of learning had taken place through the study of a single short story. (Author/DR)

A report from the Educational Resources Information Center at the National Council of Teachers of English; includes ERIC abstracts of documents pertinent to this topic. (RD)

Shows how children's use of explicit oral language is related to success in learning to read and writing. Outlines a technique to teach the use of explicit language through dramatic play. (HTH)

A recommended class activity is a simple gift exchange. Vocabulary, including a wide range of options, holiday terms, and idioms, is introduced at the beginning of class. Partners are assigned, exchange takes place, and thank-you notes may be written. Student enthusiasm and attention are often by-products. (MSE)

A study was done to clarify the effects of guided sociodramatic or group pretend play on the mathematical behaviors and adult-observed playfulness traits of five year olds. The effects of sex differences on mathematical behaviors and playfulness were also examined. (JN)

Reports on a study that compared drawing, discussion, and dramatic play as follow-up activities for reading aloud. Concludes that the children who played had better comprehension of the stories read to them. (FL)

Discusses the advantages of play-acting for teaching English to children. The play is a challenge that is not examination based, it breaks down barriers between teacher and learners, the speaking-load is spread among the students, many different skills are harnessed, and parents can witness their children's progress. Other considerations are…

Presents a model of a communication game involving adult learners in psychosocial roleplaying and decision making. Each adult develops a distinct character by continually making decisions and by relying on the other adults to add to the role-playing drama. In justifying character development choices, conversation skills are exercised. (PJM)

Here is a new approach to kindergarten language arts, developed through a blend of the authors' skills in education and theater. Language enrichment is their goal, action dramatics their technique. Discover how to make your classroom a place where the action is! (Editor/RK)

Argues that sociodramatic play in early childhood education provides children with developmental gains in social, emotional, cognitive, intellectual, language, and creative spheres. Stresses the importance of proper teacher education and practice of classroom sociodramatic play. Summarizes survey of preschool and kindergarten teachers regarding…

Describes how narratives can stimulate children's play and how it is possible to create playworlds. Shows how cultural context has a positive influence on children's quest for meaningful action. Asserts that a child's imagination is captured by the narrative, which gives objects and actions their meaning. Maintains that when adults play roles and…

Draws on current research to advocate the importance of children's need for physical activity and the benefits of teaming literature with movement and dramatic play. Focuses on: (1) brain research on movement; (2) poems and stories that highlight movement; and (3) movement and imagination. Contains 22 references and lists 39 children's books. (SD)

Reports on an educational project that focused on the nature of the support one teacher gave to the children in her kindergarten class while engaging with them in literacy play. Contends that the project revealed that young children have their own assumptions about and knowledge of the written language, which they actively use in their play. (PM)