This Drama KS3 Scheme of Work is a complete 5-lesson unit designed for students aged 11–14, focusing on scripted performance using open scripts. It supports students to develop confidence, performance skills, and rehearsal discipline, moving step-by-step from first script reading to off-script performance. The unit prioritises practical drama skills over written analysis, making it ideal for mixed-ability classes and teachers looking for a ready-to-teach scripted performance unit that works in real classrooms. Students explore voice, body, movement, gesture, facial expression and space, with structured opportunities to experiment, refine ideas, learn lines gradually, and rehearse collaboratively. The emphasis is on interpretation rather than imitation, allowing students to make meaningful performance choices. This resource works as a short Scheme of Work (SOW) or standalone drama unit, and can be used at any point in KS3, including early in the year to establish rehearsal expectations and performance routines. What’s Included 5 fully planned drama lessons (50–60 minutes each) Clear lesson progression from: open-script exploration - to rehearsal -to confident off-script performance. Detailed lesson plans with timings and teaching focus. Practical warm-ups and drama games (including a vocal exercise adapted from Augusto Boal). A two-line exploration task to develop interpretation using voice, body, space, and movement. Gradual, manageable approaches to learning lines. Guidance on blocking and staging. Optional, controlled use of props and costume (introduced at the correct point in the unit). Student task sheet and rehearsal focus handout. Assessment rubric suitable for KS3 (not curriculum-locked). Public-domain open script samples (dialogue only). Key Skills Developed Script interpretation Vocal clarity and projection Physical characterisation Use of space and audience awareness Rehearsal discipline and collaboration Confidence performing scripted drama Suitable For KS3 Drama (Years 7–9 / Ages 11–14) UK, international, and IB-aligned Drama programmes New or experienced drama teachers Departments wanting a plug-and-play scripted performance unit Teachers looking for a short SOW rather than a full-term plan Why Teachers Like This Resource No over-scaffolding — students are encouraged to think and make choices Realistic pacing with plenty of rehearsal time Clear structure without being restrictive Works well with mixed-ability groups Designed by an experienced secondary drama teacher

Drama Diagnostic Lesson | Baseline Assessment | Devising from a Traditional Tale This Drama diagnostic / baseline assessment lesson is designed to be used at the start of the year, with a new class, or at the beginning of a drama course. It allows teachers to observe students’ existing drama skills through a short, low-pressure devising task, with no pre-teaching or modelling required. Using the traditional tale The Old Man and His Grandson (Brothers Grimm), students work collaboratively to create a short interpretation of the story, focusing on meaning rather than retelling events. This makes the lesson ideal for gathering clear baseline evidence of students’ collaboration, creativity, confidence, and performance skills. This resource is intentionally open-ended and minimally scaffolded, allowing teachers to see what students can already do independently when asked to interpret a stimulus using drama. What’s included: Clear teacher overview and lesson structure Step-by-step baseline diagnostic lesson plan Student task sheet focused on interpretation, not re-enactment Teacher observation & diagnostic checklist Full text of The Old Man and His Grandson (public domain) Skills assessed: Participation and focus Cooperation and group work Ability to follow instructions Imagination and creativity Use of role and character Audience awareness Vocal clarity and confidence Lesson details: Age range: 11–14 (Year 8–10 / KS3 / Middle School) Duration: 50–60 minutes Group size: 4–5 students Assessment type: Diagnostic / baseline (not graded) Why teachers use this resource: Ideal first lesson for a new drama class Supports interpretation and meaning-making, not copying No specialist knowledge or preparation required Works with mixed-ability and mixed-confidence groups Provides clear observational data to inform future planning Curriculum compatibility: Suitable for use in KS3 Drama (UK), NZ Curriculum Drama, Australian Curriculum: Drama, and US Middle School Theatre / Performing Arts. Search keywords (TES-friendly): Drama diagnostic, drama baseline assessment, KS3 drama, devising drama lesson, drama interpretation, drama assessment, first drama lesson, drama group work, drama observation checklist, drama pre-assessment, traditional tale drama