Course Details

This course examines different concrete pedagogical approaches and philosophies for teaching Shakespeare to grades K-5 through K-12. How, for example, can teachers help students to bridge the gap of history, to feel that Shakespeare's characters are alive and relevant? Closely reading Rex Gibson's book, Teaching Shakespeare, teachers will consider how effective and applicable the ideas are. A key focus will be on teachers helping their students to imagine stories behind certain references or to interpret the plays creatively, as though they were actors and directors. Attention will also be paid to the task of how to help students understand the form and content of the plays. Alongside Gibson's book, students will read A Midsummer's Night Dream. Depicting magic and faeries, the play is often popular with children. For their final project, students will refine their strategies for teaching the play. They will design a lesson plan, critically respond to Gibson's approach, and explain the reasoning behind their ideas.

This course is applicable towards the following certificate(s):
*Literature for the Classroom

Visit our Certificates page for more information.

Professional development courses for teachers.

Top Reasons to Enroll:

•   Self-paced coursework
•   Academic and Administrative support
•   Free transcripts are sent upon completion
•   Electronic transcripts available for a nominal fee
•   Earn semester credits from a WASC accredited university
•   Registration includes all course materials
•   eBooks available on select courses
•   Convenient Online Chat for student assistance
•   Certificate programs available
•   Rapid grading turnaround time
•   Unparalleled value