Middle School Theatre Explorations
Contributing Educator: Danielle Miller
This unit immerses middle school students in the essential foundations of theatre, blending actor training, ensemble development, and introductory design. Students begin by exploring the importance of ensemble building, learning that theatre is a collaborative art form that requires trust, focus, and teamwork. Through physical and vocal warm-ups, students will understand how to prepare their bodies and voices as instruments for rehearsal and performance, while also developing the confidence to take creative risks.
Lesson Plans Included: 8
Materials: Lesson Slides, Printable Resources and Activities are included to help guide your work and support student learning.
Grade Levels: Middle School
Lesson Plan Topics
- Building an Ensemble - Trust, Teamwork, & Warm-ups (TH:Cr2-7, TH:Cr3.1.7)
- Freeze Frame Fun - Tableaus and Stage Pictures (TH:Cr.1.1.7, TH:Pr4.1.7)
- Silent but Strong - Pantomime & Nonverbal Storytelling (TH:Cr3.1.7, TH:Pr5.1.7)
- Yes, And… ! - Improvisation Basics (TH:Cr1.1.8, TH:Re7.1.8)
- Find Your Light - Movement and Stage Directions (TH:Pr4.1.7, TH:Pr4.1.8)
- Loud and Clear - Voice and Diction (TH:Cr3.1.7, TH:Re7.1.8)
- Tech Theatre Magic - Intro to Props & Set Design (TH:Pr5.1.8, TH:Re9.1.8)
- Scripts Come Alive - Scene Work, Character Building, & Performance Showcase Lesson (TH:Pr6.1.8, TH:Re8.1.8, TH:Re9.1.8)
