As an educator, I have witnessed firsthand how drama and oral language have been brushed aside in public classrooms as teachers place understandable priority on the core subjects and skills of reading, writing, and mathematics. This awareness has inspired me to further explore how theatre can positively affect a child’s development and literary education. Using theatrical elements in literacy lessons will enhance students’ success in reading and writing because it adheres to all types of learners; supports a positive learning environment; and complements and supports all aspects of language development. Teaching professionals are constantly attempting to find different ways to reach their students and support their literacy development and through the implementation of theatrical exercises and lessons, teachers can promote positive, engaging classrooms that meet the needs of all students. Learning to read and write is crucial in a child’s development of critical thinking, exploration, and expression of self. Not being able to access, learn or develop these skills can spark frustration and behavioural issues within students. By exploring the effects theatre arts have on a child’s literacy development and establishing teaching strategies that incorporate these theatrical elements, teachers will support the literacy development of their students through the incorporation of this theatrical pedagogy.
