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High-Performance Drama Studio

Creative, Challenging Drama Resources High-impact toolkits, schemes & activities for KS3–KS5. Editable. Engaging. Built for High Performance Learning. By James David Blundell – Actor • Director • Educator. Schemes include devising, character building, genre work & ensemble practice. Perfect for performance-driven classrooms.

Creative, Challenging Drama Resources High-impact toolkits, schemes & activities for KS3–KS5. Editable. Engaging. Built for High Performance Learning. By James David Blundell – Actor • Director • Educator. Schemes include devising, character building, genre work & ensemble practice. Perfect for performance-driven classrooms.
Year 9 Drama Full Scheme of Work: Theatre Practitioners (Stanislavski, Brecht, Artaud, Frantic Assem
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Year 9 Drama Full Scheme of Work: Theatre Practitioners (Stanislavski, Brecht, Artaud, Frantic Assem

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This comprehensive drama scheme introduces students to four influential theatre practitioners through an engaging mix of practical exploration, theoretical understanding, and performance-based learning. Designed specifically for Year 9 students as a bridge to GCSE Drama, the unit builds skills in style, form, analysis, collaboration, and creative risk-taking. Structured across eight detailed lessons (two per practitioner), this resource pack offers a powerful and accessible introduction to theatrical styles including Naturalism, Epic Theatre, Theatre of Cruelty, and Physical Theatre. Each lesson is fully resourced, with a clear plug-and-play format requiring no additional preparation. What’s Included Full Unit Overview with learning objectives, keywords, and assessment links Eight detailed lesson plans covering: Stanislavski: Truth in Performance, Subtext and Realism Brecht: Epic Theatre, Message and Device Artaud: Sensory Expressionism, Audience Provocation Frantic Assembly: Physical Theatre, Ensemble Storytelling Learner-facing PowerPoint presentations for every lesson Practitioner Fact Sheets for student use or classroom display End-of-Unit Written Exam (varied question types and styles) Essential classroom resources: Given Circumstances Grid Magic If Scenarios Subtext Scene Prompts Chair Duet Starters Gestus & Placard Challenges Group Devising Stimuli Curriculum Links Ideal for Key Stage 3 Drama Strong preparation for GCSE-style drama components Supports written and practical skill development Cross-links to English: analysis, interpretation, and character exploration Teacher Benefits: Ready to use in the classroom or online Differentiation opportunities embedded Clear scaffolding for performance and analysis tasks Suitable for mixed-ability groups Encourages student-led exploration and creative confidence Recommended For: Year 9 Drama Pre-GCSE foundation work Drama enrichment programs High-ability Key Stage 3 classes Performing Arts cover or practitioner exploration units
Murder-Mystery & Melodrama — Complete High-Performance Learning Drama Pack
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Murder-Mystery & Melodrama — Complete High-Performance Learning Drama Pack

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Key Stages: KS3 – KS4 Length: 8 full lessons (can extend to 10) Includes: 8 PowerPoints, full printable pack, BIGVLF toolkit, Flash-Card deck, teacher planning map Format: Editable PPTX + DOCX Unlock Genre, Build Skills, Deliver Outstanding Devised Drama This complete scheme takes students on a thrilling journey through classic melodrama and murder-mystery storytelling. It blends bold physical characterisation with modern High Performance Learning (HPL) strategies and a core acting toolkit: BIGVLF (Body Language, Interaction, Gesture, Voice, Levels, Facial Expression). Perfect for preparing students for devising units, scripted physical theatre, or ensemble-based performance. What’s Included? -8 Editable Lesson PowerPoints: from genre exploration to final performance -Mystery Flash-Card Deck: 32 printable cards (character, motive, setting, weapon) -BIGVLF Character Sheet: for tracking physical/vocal development across 3 key rehearsals -Peer Feedback Spotlight Sheet: structured AFL tool with sentence stems -Teacher Scheme Map: at-a-glance planner covering all 8 lessons, skills, resources & HPL -Printable Plot Planner + Rehearsal Tools (embedded or linked in lessons) All resources are editable and classroom-ready. -Skills-Based, Story-Rich & Feedback-Driven -Teaches dramatic structure with the Three Ps (Provocation, Pangs, Penalty) -Embeds physical and vocal technique with BIGVLF scaffold -Uses peer-to-peer AFL through Spotlight Sheet (printable or digital) -Builds High Performance Learning outcomes: linking, collaboration, risk-taking, evaluation -Great for GCSE/BTEC prep and Year 9 options Ideal For: -Drama departments seeking a fresh take on ensemble devising -Teachers wanting performance clarity AND creative fun -Covering physical theatre, genre study, or HPL-based curriculum -Printable tracking tools for drama portfolios or evidence of progress Curriculum Links -GCSE Drama: Component 1 devising (performance & log), analysis of technique -BTEC Tech Award: Development, rehearsal process, performance feedback Literacy/SEL: Character voice, motive, narrative justice, moral outcomes Built with HPL In Mind -Every lesson includes 1–2 HPL Focus Points (e.g. Meta-cognition, Creative Risk, Precision, Mastery). These are clearly flagged and supported with tailored reflection tasks.
Drama Murder Mystery Lesson (Melodrama Style)
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Drama Murder Mystery Lesson (Melodrama Style)

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This is a simple but challenging power-point for those wishing to develop their student’s knowledge of Murder mystery performances in line with a melodramatic style of performance. I would advise teachers introduce both the concept of murder mystery and the style of melodrama before rolling out this lesson as it combines the two and would work best as a hand-out during group rehearsals.
KS3 Drama Lesson – Devising from Stimulus: “FORCE” (Physical Theatre)
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KS3 Drama Lesson – Devising from Stimulus: “FORCE” (Physical Theatre)

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This ready-to-use KS3 Drama lesson explores the concept of force through physical theatre. Students interpret the word “Force” using gesture, movement, and sound to create a collaborative performance. Ideal for introducing devising from a stimulus or supporting physical theatre practice. Included: PowerPoint with clear, engaging task structure Professionally formatted lesson plan with timings and objectives Skills Developed: Creative collaboration Physical and vocal performance Interpreting abstract themes Introduction to physical theatre machines Curriculum Links: Devising Drama Physical Theatre GCSE Drama preparation (Edexcel / AQA / OCR) Perfect for: KS3 (Year 7–9) Cover lessons, enrichment, or part of a devising scheme
Year 7 Drama Lessons – Vocal Skills Unit (Part 2)
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Year 7 Drama Lessons – Vocal Skills Unit (Part 2)

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KS3 Drama Resource | 6 Complete Lessons (PowerPoint) This professionally structured unit builds upon Part 1 with a dynamic, performance-led exploration of sound, voice, and physical storytelling. Perfect for KS3 Drama or Vocal Skills development in Year 7, the scheme transitions from horror to genre-neutral storytelling and ends in peer-led creation and evaluation. What’s Included: -6 full lessons (Lessons 6–11) in editable PowerPoint format -Clear learning objectives & leveled outcomes for every lesson -Structured activities including “Yes, and…” story games, horror story performances, 10-second physical theatre, peer direction, and tension-building -Integrated homework tasks and reflection prompts -Focus on physical theatre, sound design, atmosphere, and voice control -Assessment through creative performance and self-evaluation Learning Focus: *Voice as an expressive tool *Mood and atmosphere through sound *Physical theatre and tension *Collaboration and peer feedback *Genre awareness and directorial thinking Learning Outcomes: *Develop and apply vocal skills in performance *Use sound and movement to evoke mood *Construct and perform dramatic scenes with minimal dialogue *Evaluate creative choices and audience response *Suitable for: KS3 Drama Year 7 Drama Vocal Skills Sound in Drama Physical Theatre Drama Lesson Pack Creative Voice Work Drama Horror Storytelling Group Devising Performance and Evaluation Drama Schemes of Work Non-verbal Storytelling Drama Teacher Resources
Spoon River – Director’s Pack for Ensemble Drama & Performance
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Spoon River – Director’s Pack for Ensemble Drama & Performance

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This director-focused resource includes a full performance script of Spoon River alongside a detailed director’s manual. Adapted by theatre director and educator James David Blundell, this pack is designed for internal showcases, workshop performances, or in-depth practical coursework. The script lends itself beautifully to ensemble staging, vocal layering, and physical theatre. The director’s guide offers clear suggestions for casting, structure, rehearsal plans, voice work, and performance approaches. -Ideal for KS4 & KS5 Drama, Performing Arts, or Devised Performance -Supports non-naturalistic & ensemble theatre approaches -Suitable for classroom productions, assessment performances, or process-based exploration Please note: This version does not include external public performance rights. *Buy direct: blundelljames.gumroad.com/l/kdrxr Includes full script, director’s guide, and performance materials.
Spoon River – Full Performance Pack (Script, Director’s Manual, Auditions & Analysis)
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Spoon River – Full Performance Pack (Script, Director’s Manual, Auditions & Analysis)

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This complete ensemble drama resource is ideal for schools, colleges, or youth theatres preparing a performance, showcase, or devised interpretation of Spoon River Anthology. Adapted by director and educator James David Blundell, this pack transforms Edgar Lee Masters’ haunting poetic voices into a dynamic, physical and vocal stage performance. Designed for educational and amateur use, the materials support rehearsal planning, performance building, and student interpretation. -Full performance script -Director’s manual with casting, voice work, blocking & staging ideas -Audition materials + production call -Analytical documents for coursework or text study This version is best suited for internal or school productions. Looking for performance rights, extra resources, or full access to the Spoon River bundle? *Purchase directly from the creator: blundelljames.gumroad.com/l/kdrxr Buying direct supports independent theatre-making and helps bring more creative classroom tools to life.
Spoon River – Script for Classroom Reading or Interpretation
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Spoon River – Script for Classroom Reading or Interpretation

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This script-only version of Spoon River is ideal for classroom use, drama exploration, or performance interpretation activities. Adapted by theatre director and educator James David Blundell, this version brings Edgar Lee Masters’ poetic voices to life through monologue, choral storytelling, and character-rich scenes. It’s perfect for drama classes looking to work with text, voice, or ensemble devising. -Suitable for KS4–KS5 Drama, Performing Arts, or English Literature -Great for character development, monologue practice, and voice work -Includes 15+ audition-friendly poetic monologues from the source Perfect for creative classroom study or mock assessment work. *Buy direct: blundelljames.gumroad.com/l/kdrxr Includes full script, director’s guide, and performance materials.
Shakespeare Monologues: Circles of Energy Acting Pack (KS4/KS5 + Audition-Ready)
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Shakespeare Monologues: Circles of Energy Acting Pack (KS4/KS5 + Audition-Ready)

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This premium acting and drama resource offers students and teachers a powerful toolkit for exploring Shakespeare monologues using Patsy Rodenburg’s acclaimed Three Circles of Energy technique. Perfect for GCSE, A-Level, IB Theatre, or audition coaching, this resource pack includes five carefully selected monologues, each broken down in a structured, actor-friendly format that supports both independent student discovery and teacher-led instruction. This Pack Includes: 5 Fully Developed Shakespeare Monologues: Falstaff – “What is Honour?” (Henry IV, Part 1) Hamlet – “What a piece of work is man” Hamlet – “To be or not to be” Viola – “Make me a willow cabin” (Twelfth Night Portia – “The quality of mercy” (Merchant of Venice) Each monologue includes: *Original Shakespeare text *Plain English paraphrase *Emotional beats and performance structure *Character objectives per beat *First-person character reflection *Circle of Energy analysis (Rodenburg-based) Also included: A complete teacher’s lesson plan to introduce the Three Circles of Energy with exercises, discussions, and practical activities Learning Objectives: Deepen understanding of Shakespeare through emotional and physical performance Introduce voice work and energetic presence using Rodenburg’s acting theory Build toward assessment-ready monologue performances Foster self-reflection, vocal clarity, and stage confidence Ideal For: KS4 and KS5 Drama & English IB Theatre / Monologue units Audition training and one-to-one actor coaching Voice and movement specialists Cover lessons with stretch & challenge potential *Thank you for supporting original, actor-focused drama resources. This pack was developed from years of performance training, voice coaching, and student-centred rehearsal processes. I hope it empowers your learners and enriches your practice.
Drama Voice Skills Pack – Tone, Projection & Emphasis
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Drama Voice Skills Pack – Tone, Projection & Emphasis

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Three professional, printable drama voice worksheets designed for KS3–GCSE Drama students. These can be used in lessons, homework, or rehearsal journals to help actors explore tone, projection, and emphasis in performance. What’s Inside: Clear explanations of each vocal skill Layered, scaffolded tasks Opportunities for personal interpretation and feedback Great for monologue prep and exam technique Drama Voice Skills, Tone, Projection, Emphasis, GCSE Drama, Monologue Practice, Acting Techniques, Physical Theatre, Drama Worksheets
Freeze Frames to Improvisation – High-Impact Drama Warm-Up Resource
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Freeze Frames to Improvisation – High-Impact Drama Warm-Up Resource

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This all-in-one warm-up toolkit guides students from physical activation through freeze frames, gestures, thought tracking, and full improvisation. Ideal for ensemble-building, devising units, character work, and performance practice. Carefully structured with step-by-step guidance, high-performance extensions, and a student skills sheet, this resource is perfect for drama specialists, cover lessons, or non-specialist teachers looking to embed deeper learning into warm-up activities. What’s Included Teacher’s Guide: Clear warm-up flow, setup instructions, and pedagogy tips -Student Performance Skills Sheet: Printable handout with breakdowns of stillness, levels, gesture, movement, vocal variation, and improvisation technique -40+ Freeze Frame Prompts: Categorised by theme (e.g. Mystery, Conflict, Comedy, Emotional, Fantasy, Social Justice) -High Performance Learning (HPL) Extensions: Challenge tasks for gifted and talented students -Spotlight & Feedback Framework: Easy-to-use reflection tools for peer and teacher-led critique Curriculum & Assessment Links: Covers still image, improvisation, physicality, and collaboration Perfect For KS3/KS4 Drama (Years 7–11) -Middle/High School Theatre programs -Devising and ensemble work -Practical exam warm-ups (GCSE/A-Level/BTEC) -Remote or hybrid classrooms (printable or projectable) -Drama cover lessons or non-specialist teachers Skills Developed -Physical storytelling -Vocal characterisation -Non-verbal communication -Spatial awareness -Collaboration & peer feedback -Improvisation and creative thinking Why Teachers Love It “It bridges warm-ups with actual performance skills.” “The student sheet is gold—perfect for reflection and self-assessment.” “High challenge, high structure. It works across ability levels.”
Word to World: Devising Drama Toolkit | Stimulus to Staging with Real-World Themes
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Word to World: Devising Drama Toolkit | Stimulus to Staging with Real-World Themes

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Unlock the full creative power of your drama students with this dynamic, issue-based devising resource. Word to World takes learners on a structured journey from stimulus exploration to live performance—guided by powerful prompts, high-performance learning strategies, and real-world research. Perfect for KS3, KS4, and adaptable for KS5. Phase Activities & Tools: Stimulus Exploration Word + Phrase Prompt Cards, Physicalisation Games, Wall of Words Thematic Structuring Categorisation Sheet (Personal / Social / Political / Societal / Cultural), Sorting Cards, Focus Selector Research Integration Student-Friendly Research Guide, Drama Research Response Sheet, “Historical Echoes” Extension Task Scene & Character Building BIGVLF Warm-Ups, Scene Planning Templates, Thought-Tracking & Physical Improvisation Tasks Reflection & Evaluation HPL Reflection Sheet, Peer Feedback Tools, Personal Voice in Performance In the Pack: 25 Word Prompts 20 Phrase Stimuli Cards Full Lesson Plan Sequence Printable Categorisation Sheets + Labels Editable Research & Reflection Templates Bonus: Historical Echo Task Teacher Scheme Map (for planning, OFSTED, SLT) Ideal for: Devising schemes Drama curriculum planning (half-term unit) One-off creative workshops PSHE & Cross-Curricular Enrichment Non-linear or documentary theatre projects Exam group stimulus response work
The Physical Actor's Toolkit: BIGVLF Warm-Ups, Tasks & Performance Lesson (KS3/KS4 Drama)
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The Physical Actor's Toolkit: BIGVLF Warm-Ups, Tasks & Performance Lesson (KS3/KS4 Drama)

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A ready-to-use, high-impact lesson pack for KS3/KS4 drama classes, designed to embed physical theatre skills using the BIGVLF framework (Body, Interaction, Gestures, Voice, Levels, Facial Expression). This resource includes a complete lesson plan, warm-up sheet, 12-task actor card deck, reflection and peer assessment tools, and two engaging PowerPoints for delivery and student-led activity. Ideal for ensemble building, character development, cover lessons, or physical theatre warm-ups. Built with High Performance Learning principles in mind—fostering precision, reflection, and expressive growth.
Ensemble Devising Cards – 40+ Drama Prompts for Creative Group Work
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Ensemble Devising Cards – 40+ Drama Prompts for Creative Group Work

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Ignite your students’ ensemble work with this deck of 40+ printable devising task cards. Perfect for physical theatre, collaborative storytelling, or scene-building practice, this flexible toolkit is ideal for KS3–KS5 drama, youth theatre, or GCSE/A-Level devising. Includes six categories: Scene Starters Character Building Transitions Conflict & Climax Physicality & Levels Sound & Silence Includes: Printable task card deck (editable DOCX) Clear teacher instructions with carousel & warm-up use HPL links: creativity, collaboration, physical expression Excellent for full lessons, rehearsals, or cover No prep required – just print or project and go!
Unlocking Given Circumstances – Drama & English Analysis Toolkit
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Unlocking Given Circumstances – Drama & English Analysis Toolkit

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A dual-purpose Drama and English resource for mastering Given Circumstances. Includes study grids, essay tasks, performance notes, and case studies for An Inspector Calls, Macbeth, DNA, and more. This powerful toolkit supports students in both Drama and English by helping them explore Given Circumstances across performance and analytical contexts. Perfect for KS3–KS4 and GCSE/IGCSE learners, it includes: -Editable GC Grid Template -Essay Planning and Quote Analysis Sheets -Contextual Linking + Performance Prep -Character Evolution Timeline -3 Tiers of Tasks: Written, Essay, Performance -Pre-filled studies for An Inspector Calls, Macbeth, Blood Brothers, DNA, A View from the Bridge -Flashcards, model answers, and visual analysis tables Ideal for: Devising & script work Exam preparation Close reading & literary analysis Performance interpretation and rehearsal planning Created by the High-Performance Drama Studio, this resource blends high-level thinking with accessible structure. A must-have cross-curricular tool for every Drama or English classroom.
Year 8 Drama: Rebuild + Rise – Complete Plug-and-Play Scheme of Work (8 Lessons)
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Year 8 Drama: Rebuild + Rise – Complete Plug-and-Play Scheme of Work (8 Lessons)

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Perfect for the start of the academic year, this fully resourced and ready-to-teach scheme of work is designed to refresh, extend, and energise Year 8 drama students as they build on foundational skills from Year 7. What’s Included: -8 Detailed Lesson Plans (docx) -Full Unit Overview + Learning Objectives -Complete PowerPoint Slides for Every Lesson -No additional printing or materials required – fully plug-and-play What Students Will Learn: -BIGVLF Physical & Vocal Skills -Ensemble Work, Characterisation, Improvisation -Staging, Blocking, and Performance Precision -Collaborative Devising & Storytelling -Reflection, Self-Evaluation, and Confidence Building High Performance Learning Focus: -Metacognition -Risk-taking -Collaboration -Linking & Strategic Thinking Ideal For: KS3 Drama Teachers Back-to-School Refreshers Cover Lessons or Trainee Teachers Skill-boosting for after-school drama clubs This scheme builds confidence, ownership, and precision in your young performers while keeping the classroom inclusive, energetic, and creative. Perfect for schools looking to embed both performance and reflection into their drama curriculum. No extra printing. No prep. Just teach. Editable Word versions available. Download, project, perform.
Back-to-School Drama Starter Pack: Building Ensemble, Creativity & Confidence
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Back-to-School Drama Starter Pack: Building Ensemble, Creativity & Confidence

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Everything you need to kick off the drama year with confidence! This resource bundle includes editable contracts, printable games, improvisation prompts, classroom posters, a reflection journal, and a fully designed welcome slideshow. Perfect for building ensemble trust, creative risk-taking, and classroom expectations in the first weeks of term. Ideal for KS3/KS4 Drama. Includes: -Icebreakers & Ensemble Games -Editable Ensemble Contract -Improvisation Prompt Cards -Reflection Starter Journal -Drama Room Expectations Posters -First-Lesson Slide Deck Perfect for: drama teachers, youth theatre leaders, and creative classrooms starting the new school year!
BIGVLF Character Toolkit: From Skills to Scene
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BIGVLF Character Toolkit: From Skills to Scene

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This engaging and versatile resource introduces the BIGVLF framework—Body Language, Interaction, Gestures, Voice, Levels, Facial Expression—to build expressive, embodied characterisation in the drama classroom. Students first develop each skill through fun, focused tasks, then apply them to dynamic scenes that challenge their character choices in real time. Perfect for devising units, physical theatre, vocal work, or performance exams (GCSE Drama, BTEC Performing Arts), this toolkit blends high-performance learning with practical drama training. What’s Included: Fully structured Teacher Guide Six-part BIGVLF Skills Explorer with activities and challenges Three Adaptable Scenes to apply BIGVLF in context Printable Student Worksheets to track performance growth Reflection Prompts and High Performance Learning tasks Bonus: Editable Word file for customisation Scene Titles: The Arrival – social dynamics at a party shift unexpectedly The News – a domestic revelation creates conflict The Choice – loyalty is tested under pressure Each scene supports emotional layering, character arcs, and the development of ensemble awareness. Skills Covered: -Physical characterisation -Vocal variation -Non-verbal storytelling -Spatial awareness -Interaction and response -Scene-based improvisation Why Teachers Love It: “Easy to use, structured, and insightful for both beginners and advanced students.” “The BIGVLF framework gives students real tools for evaluating and improving their performances.” “Perfect for warm-ups, deep-dives, and assessment work.”
Year 7 Drama: Vocal Skills Unit (5 Complete Lessons)
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Year 7 Drama: Vocal Skills Unit (5 Complete Lessons)

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A ready-to-teach Key Stage 3 voice-based scheme of work This comprehensive 5-lesson drama resource explores how voice can be used expressively and creatively in performance. Developed for Year 7 but adaptable across KS3, this scheme introduces students to vocal confidence, non-verbal communication, soundscaping, and storytelling through voice, mime, and ensemble movement. What’s Included: 5 PowerPoint lessons, clearly structured and visually engaging Learning objectives with leveled outcomes (Level 3–5) Full warm-up activities, main tasks, and performance prompts Homework tasks for reflection and evaluation - booklet included. Use of physical theatre, vocal technique, and ensemble collaboration Learning Outcomes Across the Unit: Build vocal awareness and explore tone, pitch, pace, and emotion Develop storytelling without words (gibberish, sound collage, mime) Work creatively in pairs and groups to build expressive performance pieces
A Christmas Carol – Full Drama Unit: Performance Skills (Voice, Movement, Ensemble)
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A Christmas Carol – Full Drama Unit: Performance Skills (Voice, Movement, Ensemble)

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An engaging, fully resourced 8-lesson scheme designed around A Christmas Carol, focusing on performance skills such as voice, gesture, physical storytelling, characterisation, and ensemble work. Ideal for KS3 or lower KS4. *Includes: 8 PowerPoint lessons (differentiated & scaffolded) Printable student worksheets Scene-based scripts Homework & reflection tasks Peer feedback & performance structure Final showcase & celebration Perfect for autumn/winter term drama teaching. Flexible and ready to use!