### Lesson Plan: Introduction to Basics of Theatre for Elementary Age (Ages 8-13)

**Objective:** Students will be introduced to fundamental concepts of theatre, including stage directions, acting techniques, and teamwork.

**Materials Needed:**
- Open space for movement
- Whiteboard and markers
- Printed handouts with theatre vocabulary
- Props (optional)
- Music player with instrumental tracks (optional)

**Lesson Outline:**

**1. Introduction (5 minutes)**
- Welcome students and introduce yourself.
- Explain the goal of the lesson: to explore the basics of theatre and its elements.
- Discuss briefly what theatre is and why it's important in storytelling and communication.

**2. Warm-Up (5 minutes)**
- Lead students through a physical warm-up to prepare their bodies for movement and vocal exercises.
- Include stretches, breathing exercises, and vocal warm-ups (e.g., tongue twisters).

**3. Theatre Vocabulary (5 minutes)**
- Introduce key theatre vocabulary: stage, stage directions (upstage, downstage, stage left, stage right), actor, audience, props, costume, script, etc.
- Write these terms on the whiteboard and briefly explain each one.

**4. Acting Techniques (10 minutes)**
- Demonstrate and explain basic acting techniques:
  - Projection: speaking clearly and loudly enough to be heard by the audience.
  - Expression: using facial expressions and body language to convey emotions.
  - Movement: how to move on stage purposefully and with confidence.
- Have students practice these techniques through simple exercises (e.g., pretending to be different animals, expressing emotions without words).

**5. Stage Directions and Movement (5 minutes)**
- Use the open space to explain and demonstrate stage directions (upstage, downstage, stage left, stage right).
- Have students practice moving to different areas of the stage while calling out the directions.

**6. Group Activity (10 minutes)**
- Divide students into small groups.
- Assign each group a short scenario (e.g., a trip to the zoo, a birthday party).
- Instruct them to create a short improvised scene (1-2 minutes) using the techniques and vocabulary learned.
- Encourage creativity and collaboration among group members.

**7. Performance and Reflection (5 minutes)**
- Each group performs their improvised scene in front of the class.
- After each performance, facilitate a brief discussion:
  - What did you notice about each group's performance?
  - How did they use stage directions, acting techniques, and props (if used)?
  - What could they improve or change for next time?

**8. Wrap-Up (5 minutes)**
- Summarize key points of the lesson: theatre vocabulary, basic acting techniques, and stage directions.
- Encourage students to practice acting at home and explore theatre by watching plays or movies.
- Answer any questions and provide feedback on their performances.

**Homework (optional):**
- Ask students to write a short paragraph about what they enjoyed most about today's lesson or what they found challenging.

**Assessment:**
- Informal assessment based on participation, understanding of theatre concepts demonstrated during activities, and ability to apply techniques in the improvised scene.

**Notes:**
- Adjust activities as needed based on the students' energy levels and engagement.
- Foster a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore and express themselves creatively through theatre.

August 6 - Musicals
August 13 - Dramas
August 20 - Techincal Skills
August 27 - Improv