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The Shadow Puppet Theatre (for grades 4-8) is a simple way to engage students in drama while strengthening their research and revision skills. I read about this in the latest issue of IRA's publication, Inspire. It sounds as though it would be a terrific motivator and skill builder. If any of you decide to do this with your students, let me know how it turns out. I'll pass your experience on in the Teacher's Lounge at a later date.

To introduce students to the medium, you'll need an overhead projector and screen or whiteboard on which to cast the shadows. Begin with a demonstration of a story with which the students are familiar, and let students see the puppets and props you've used to put on the show. Once you've piqued their interest, choose a topic that ties into your curriculum and tell your students that they are going to write and produce their own puppet show.

In groups of four or five, have the students gather information on the selected topic and brainstorm ways their findings can be put into a script. After the first-draft scripts are written, have the students make puppets and backdrops for their characters. (You can watch a video tutorial of this process at http://artsedge.kennedy-center.org/multimedia/series/AEMicrosites/playing-with-shadows.aspx).

Rehearsal: Pair the small groups that every group has an audience for their practice shows. Tell the students to reevaluate their scripts after they've done a practice show, and encourage them to use audience feedback to guide their final revision.

Showtime: Once a group feels it is ready, assemble the whole class and enjoy the show! (Hint: Microwave popcorn and a cold soda will add a special touch.)

That's all for this month, folks. Remember, if you have a tip or a question, let us hear from you. Just use the "Contact" link at this site and tell us what's on your mind.