Grades:
9-12
Idea File:
In Their Own Words
Students research, write, and perform monologues from the point of view of an artist from a period in history.
Resource:
Words Like FreedomTeaching Concepts:
- Researching and writing monologues increases knowledge of historical artists.
- Performing is both a kinesthetic and an intellectual activity.
- Making connections between the arts promotes intellectual growth.
Academic Content
- Drama: creating and performing using elements of drama
- Drama and Visual Arts: periods and styles (Renaissance, Impressionism, Realism)
- World History: historical periods
Lesson Idea
Video: Show one or more examples of monologues, selecting from the “Words Like Freedom,” Hamlet, and “Drama Based on History: Gov. Edwin Morrow” excerpts.
- Students research visual artists from the Renaissance, Impressionism, or Realism periods of art history.
- Each student writes a two-minute monologue from the artist’s point of view, making sure to include information about the artist’s life and placing the character in his/her historical context.
- Students perform the monologues in class, school, or community settings.
Author: Mary Henson