Theatre Teacher Certification

Principles and techniques governing the preparation of plays and other theatrical events for performance, design, direction and production. Contemporary systems of script analysis. Emphasis on theory and criticism of theatre arts.

Recognition and examination of the history and philosophy, production and performance of theatre for young audiences. Through focused inquiry, work on the practical problems that arise in the selection and performance of dramatic texts, original collective creations and adaptation of selected literature. Emphasis on connecting artistic practices and trends in educational theatre to theories of child/adolescent development.

Examines the processes of human learning and development as they relate to teaching in diverse EC–12 classroom settings. Understanding of these processes is applied to lesson design, instructional strategies and assessment.

Prerequisite(s): With the exception of student teaching, all course work on the degree plan must be complete. Senior standing and admission to teacher education are required. The student must be able to pass a criminal background check.

Taken during the semester immediately preceding student teaching, this course provides knowledge and skills required for organizing and directing various instructional strategies in the secondary classroom. Content includes teaching strategies, approaches to classroom management and discipline, student motivation, student and teacher assessment and evaluation, and the use of media and technology in the classroom.

Theories and practical application of theatre in the classroom with children and adolescents. Integrates the content area of theatre with educational pedagogy, with an emphasis on theatre games, improvisational play-making, story dramatization, and thematic work in educational and recreational settings.