Aesop's Fables Scheme of Work
Aesop's Fables Scheme Of Work

Aesop's Fables Scheme of Work

6 Drama Lesson Plans for Year 7 (Ages 11-12yrs)

Focusing on the Aesop fable ‘The Tortoise and the Hare’, this scheme of work also explores the origins of the Olympic Games and develops students understanding of basic of the Greek Theatre elements such as masks and chorus work. The concept of fables is introduced and their modern relevancy explored.

Each lesson plan has clearly stated objectives and learning outcomes. They are structured to include introductory warm up, development and plenary sessions. A homework task is also included.

*Update* Teaching drama can be quite daunting for non-specialists. A desk-based cover lesson is now included in the package based on a 2 page handout. The aim is to provide thematic continuity in the event of drama teacher absence.

Aesop's FablesTooltip

The scheme of work contains 6 drama lesson plans.

  • Lesson 1: What is a Fable?

    Explores students understanding of Fables and develops them as drama pieces using Frozen Pictures and Forum Theatre.
  • Lesson 2: The Tortoise and the Hare

    Teaches students how to use ‘thought tunnel’ and ‘voices in the head’ techniques, supported by masks of the two characters. Masks are included!
  • Lesson 3: A Day in the Life

    Explores the building of character profiles, examining personalities and traits through flashback and narration.
  • Lesson 4: The Animal Olympics

    Lively and energetic lesson, using three team games (M&M Relay, Under/Over Ball Race and Guided Creature) to help convey the excitement of the Olympic ideals of competition and participation. Culminates in a podium and winner’s photo!
  • Lesson 5: The Big Race

    Prepared class improvisation, including thought tapping, narration, chanting, and interviews to cover the sporting challenge between Tortoise and Hare. Ends in a class tableau.
  • Lesson 6: Performance Assessment

    Exploration of the modern relevance of fables, with students using a range of techniques to create and perform original scenes.

Supporting materials include

  • Aesop’s Fable: The Tortoise and The Hare
  • Masks of Tortoise and Hare
  • *New*Cover lesson handout

Additional resources are included in the appendices

  • Basic Drama Skills
  • End Of Unit Self-Assessment Form

The scheme of work is supplied as a PDF file, readable on most computers.