Readers' Theatre TASK OVERVIEW Readers' theatre allows literature to come alive through oral interpretation. The focus in the readers' theatre is on the literature itself. Unlike plays, there is little need for costumes, stage sets, props or movement. The presenters do not have to memorize their lines. Students participating in a readers' theatre are encouraged to make the reading of the literature interesting by using their voices, facial expressions and gestures. INSTRUCTIONS You are to select one of the published short plays, poems or stories that we used in class.  In preparation for the reading of a particular passage, you need to decide what characters and narrators are needed. The activity may be done individually or in groups (maximum of four). Find yourself other members of the class who want to read the same text and begin dividing the roles (every member of the group must have approximately the same amount of reading). Next they must decide which lines should be read by individuals and which parts should be read by a group. Various roles are assigned to group members. Begin practicing your role. Focus on: - reading the text as it is written - voice (expression, tone, pacing) - audience - character interpretation - dramatic affect (rapping, tableau, individual/choral reading) You will be mark individually, as well as a group. ASSESSED SKILLS Communication uses tone of voice and gestures to enhance the message and help convince or persuade listeners in conversations, discussions, or presentations Communication contributes and works constructively in groups Organization of Ideas demonstrates the ability to concentrate by identifying main points and staying on topic Communication reads aloud, showing understanding of the material and awareness of the audience Reasoning identifies a writer's perspective or character's motivation RELATED SKILLS selects appropriate reading strategies