Pocahontas: Act It Out!

9/25/2018

Captain John Smith looked dashing in a white shirt, maroon tunic, and purple cape. Pocahontas was lovely herself in a deer skin dress. Okay, it wasn't real deer skin.

It was American History Homeschool Co-op day. We had finished reviewing the Renaissance and Reformation. We had finished learning about the Native Americans and the Spanish explorers. Now, it is was time to learn about Jamestown.

We decided to add some drama to the day by acting out the story of Princess Pocahontas saving Captain John Smith's life.

The week before, we had made Native American vests and headdresses. The children put them on to become members of Powhatan's tribe.

The director, homeschool Mom Molly, read up on the story an reminded the children of the story before they started planning the drama.

After reviewing the story, the children planned a short drama and practiced it a few times. the little ones didn't have any speaking parts.

When they were ready, we recorded it.

There were lots of giggles and smiles as the children practiced and performed the short drama.

Why is drama such a great way to learn?

You have to know a story well before you can act it out. This study time helps to bring the story alive.

And the drama? It's just plain fun!

Adding fun, like acting stories out, helps bring history alive, creates fond memories, and helps people remember the facts of the story. After all, history should be fun.

Until next time, Happy Homeschooling!

Warmly,
Meredith Curtis