Customer Reviews

Ready-To-Use Activities for Teaching Much Ado about Nothing

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I don't know about you, but I often buy a lot of teaching JUNK. But-finally, I found something to USE.

Often, Shakespeare teaching materials are either watered down so much that it insults the high school students' intelligence. Or, the materials are so centered on performance that the average student becomes scared to death of Shakespeare.

The materials included in John Wilson Swope's activities book is right up my ally. Through the help of his activities, I can complete a two week literature workshop that includes literture circles engaging students in discussions of not only themes, but figurative language, vocabulary and connection to today's culture. What a relief- students don't have to be afraid they will be made to perform in front of the class (not everyone likes the spotlight). With the activities, I can also create a written final in addition to a performing final (some suggestions for performance is included, like unthreatening sock puppet skits). Students are responsible individually and as a group. And, this material is extremely helpful to those on a block schedule. In 85 mins., I need to change my activites 2-3 times a class period; these activities help me do just that. Thanks Swope!

Among the features that I like most about Swope's "Ready-to-Use" book is the variety of exercises intended to teach to the multiple intelligences. The book lends itself readily to immediate use in the classroom. I can highly recommend this book.