Physicality in Character Development
Exploring physical and vocal techniques to portray diverse characters on stage.
Key Questions
- How does a character's physical posture reveal their inner feelings?
- What role does breath play in conveying different emotional states?
- How can an actor show a character's change of heart without speaking?
Common Core State Standards
About This Topic
The New England colonies were shaped by the religious convictions of the Pilgrims and Puritans and the region's challenging physical environment. Students explore how the rocky soil and cold climate led to an economy based on fishing, shipbuilding, and trade rather than large-scale farming. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of the town meetinghouse as a center for both religion and local government, as well as the high value placed on education and literacy.
This topic connects to standards regarding the influence of religion on social and political structures. It also introduces the concept of self-government in the colonies. Students grasp this concept faster through structured discussion and peer explanation as they analyze the rules of a Puritan community.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: The Town Meeting
Students act as members of a New England town. They must debate and vote on a local issue, such as building a new school or setting a tax, following the strict social rules of a Puritan community.
Inquiry Circle: Maritime Economy
In small groups, students examine a list of natural resources in New England (timber, fish, deep harbors). They design a 'business plan' for a colonial merchant, explaining how they will turn these resources into profit.
Think-Pair-Share: The Mayflower Compact
Pairs read the Mayflower Compact and identify the key promise the settlers made to each other. They discuss why having a written agreement was so important before they even stepped off the ship.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionThe Pilgrims and Puritans were the same group.
What to Teach Instead
Pilgrims were 'Separatists' who wanted to leave the Church of England, while Puritans wanted to 'purify' it from within. A simple sorting activity or Venn diagram helps students distinguish between these two religious groups.
Common MisconceptionNew Englanders came only for religious freedom for everyone.
What to Teach Instead
They wanted religious freedom for themselves, but were often intolerant of other beliefs. A simulation of a town meeting where a 'dissenter' is heard helps students understand the limits of Puritan tolerance.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Pilgrims and Puritans come to New England?
How did the geography of New England affect its economy?
What was the importance of the town meeting?
What are the best hands-on strategies for teaching about the New England colonies?
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