Right Brain Initiative Residency

RESIDENCY GOALS
The study of drama develops perspective in contemplating the human experience. Drama students acquire a greater social and cultural awareness of the world around them.
Develop perspective in contemplating the human experience.

To harness their imagination and creativity, their critical thinking and problem solving.
A deeper understanding of self and group expression through creative play and story, and grow in embracing process and choice to form an idea.

To develop their artistic voice using the power of words and language, experiencing a deeper connection to text through physical and verbal choices.

WORK WITH STUDENTS
Storytelling/Improvisation:
Students bring to life existing text such as fables, fairy/folk tales, poetry, historical accounts, or student-developed pieces.
Some commonly used themes include: anti-bullying, conflict/resolution, and “My World.”
Ideas explored are story structure, character, setting, plot, using the oral tradition.
Mime, or puppets can be addressed.
Students typically work in small groups.

Living History Perspective:
Students explore historical time periods and key events by imagining and bringing historical text to life through character work and improvisation.
Session work and suggested extension activities encourage students to explore the time period both as an observer and an imagined participant through character construction and development, journal/dialogue writing, and research.
Popular topics include: Oregon Trail/Westward Expansion, Lewis and Clark, Civil War, Shackleton’s arctic adventure, and Portland’s history and future.
Common themes: Exploration, Adventure, Bravery, and Impact.

Science Connections:
Scientific concepts and themes are brought to life (embodied, investigated) as students explore in an inventive style, which aids in comprehension and makes the difficult tangible.
Some focus areas include: space exploration and the solar system, living ecosystems, life cycles, plant growth, animal adaptations and the water cycle.

This program offered by: Acts of Wonder

Questions? 

If you have questions or would like more information about this program or the Right Brain Initiative, please contact:

Ryan Higa
Senior Education Manager
503-225-5900 x703
[email protected]

 

Details

Program Model: In Class

Art Form(s):

Curriculum Connections: Language Arts, Science, Social Studies

Grades: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, K

Program Requirements: Space: One designated classroom where students come to me., Can move from classroom to classroom. Technology: Sometimes require projector, but can work around.

Instruction Language(s): English

Min. Residency Sessions/Classroom:

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Acts of Wonder

About the Artist

Acts of Wonder

Nikki, with Acts of Wonder, is a licensed teacher for K-12 who has worked through the creative lens with thousands of students from all walks of life for over 20 years. Specializing in Creative Dramatics Arts Integration with a particular focus on social emotional and group dynamics and connection, she nurtures an environment where students find joy through creating and playing together, while honoring their instincts. Nikki believes that any day she is helping young people use their imaginations and create a story is a good day. As an Elementary Drama Teacher some of her most memorable moments were working in tandem with the Art teacher to create various group projects and installations including a walk-through sensory rainforest experience. Other projects included a full body puppet parade, shadow puppets, and adapted stories for Enchanted India. Nikki has been a member of Right Brian since 2010 and was part of Right Brain’s Colloquium series of featured artists. She has worked with a variety of after-school, in-school, and grant-funded programs serving students in all sorts of demographics and socio-economic backgrounds.

"What Nikki did in my classroom is literally the most amazing thing I have ever seen. It has totally changed my perspective on my own teaching." - Megan Smith, 1st Grade, Oregon Trail

Learn More about Acts of Wonder
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