Drama in the L2 Classroom: A Defense and Practicum

Abstract

A case is made for the use and practice of drama and dramatic activities in order to engage students in the second language (L2) classroom. This article also attempts to clarify terms such as drama, theatre, and dramatic activities within a second language classroom context. In order to make the case for drama in the L2 classroom, well-established trends in contemporary pedagogy are presented. Coupled with Maley & Duff’s benefits of drama in the L2 classroom, the overall intent of this article is to empower L2 instructors and give them the theoretical and practical tools to brave potentially hostile educational environments that may not be open to dramatic activities in the classroom. In short, while teachers may instinctively know the value and benefits of drama to their language learners, they may at times need to convince administrators, fellow teachers, and even themselves of the benefits.