Program Updates – Drama & PE/Health – November 2024

8th Grade Drama:
Recently, 8th graders have been making exciting progress on their 10-minute play projects. They’ve been drafting the first few pages of their scripts, using feedback from peers and reflections on their work to refine their ideas. Students will be getting weekly feedback as they write to help them build their confidence and improve their work as they go. By focusing on specific strengths and areas for growth, students are learning to trust their creative voices and build confidence as storytellers.

7th Grade Drama:
In the past few weeks, 7th graders have been applying their improv skills to shape ideas for original short plays. This week we will be selecting compelling central conflicts, and start working in small groups to sketch out their play idea. Through thoughtful feedback and discussions, students are discovering how to make strong choices that engage their audience. By reflecting on their work and celebrating specific successes, they are building both their creative skills and their confidence in collaboration.

6th Grade Drama:
6th graders are hard at work preparing their Elephant and Piggie Project for a performance at the West Seattle Community Preschool. Recently, they’ve been practicing big, clear choices with their actions and voices and reflecting on how those choices connect with young audiences. With guidance and specific positive feedback from peers and teachers, students are growing more confident in their abilities to perform and support one another as scene partners. This week students are starting to add costumes and props to their performances. I am still working with the Community Preschool regarding timing of our performance. I will keep you and students posted. These performances will be just for the Preschool; we will not be able to have parents join.

PE/Health:
In PE, the students have been playing basketball and now scoopball. In the basketball unit, the students were given options of playing different types of games such as “horse”, “poison”, “half court basketball” and “shuttle basketball” with three teams at once. Scoopball can be described as a cross between Lacrosse, Team Handball and Ultimate. One cannot run with the ball if they have it in their scoop and defense is similar to ultimate. A score occurs if the ball bounces into the goal. Loose balls on the ground can be claimed by the first person to cover it with their scoop, at which point they are allowed to stand up and play from there. So far, the students seem to be having fun with this unit and they even play it during lunch.