Students study the speeches of Frederick Douglas, Abraham Lincoln, and Chief Joseph. Students write a story set during the Nineteenth Century Era. Students present their story to the class. Handouts and worksheets are included in the...

Students use the Internet to research the history of the splitting of the atom. They use that research to prepare a presentation on an aspect of that topic. A map is generated to record findings and results.

Students have an appreciation of Langston Hughe's poetry and his use of jazz rhythms, have the ability to read poetry closely, and freewrite to gain a fresh perspective on music and literature.

Students investigate the writings of Thoreau. They read passages orally and look for words of imagery in the text. Students also answer a series of questions and they convert passages of writing into theatrical presentations in order to...

In this listening worksheet, 6th graders listen to a biography of Russell Crowe and answer questions. Students fill in missing words in a transcript of the podcard. A full transcript is also included.

Students view live theatre. In this play productions instructional activity, students visit selected venues online or in person to see up to 41 plays in the United Kingdom.

Students study the design elements of Art Nouveau, its sources and development. They create art projects in ceramics and glass that exemplify the focus of Art Nouveau as a decorative style.

This online book presents an overview of American literature chronologically. Eras and movements are explained and biographies of significant authors are provided. This is a good way to understand the background and influences of...

This article by Morris Dickstein traces the history of American poetry, drama, fiction, and social and literary criticism from the early 17th century to the late 20th century. It includes a section for each century providing historical...

Part of a larger unit comparing O'Neill's and Tennessee Williams's work, this lesson focuses on family dynamics in "Long Day's Journey Into Night" and "A Streetcar Named Desire."

This introduction to contemporary drama focuses on the elements or characteristics of drama and the theme of the American Dream. It features the play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, which is set in the 1950s.

This site presents the full text of the "Simonds History of American Literature." This detailed reference book explores the literature in early colonial times, the eighteenth century, the beginning of the nineteenth century, the New...

Discover more about the play Our Town by Thornton Wilder when you visit this educational resource. This site features links to lesson plans for this incredible American drama.

Susan Glaspell is featured in this brief biography for her literary contributions as author and playwright focusing on the role of women in American society in the early twentieth century. See "Susan Glaspell Activities" for related...

This is an introduction to Act I of "A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry which focuses on "how the social, educational, and political climate of the 1950s affected African Americans' quest for 'The American Dream.'" It features...

Using their drama series "American Family" as a kick-off point, PBS explores Latino family issues and what it means to be Latino. In addition to extensive information about the series itself, they have articles on mural art and East LA,...

From the PBS series American Family: What it Means to Be Lation the first Latino family drama on broadcast television. What it Means to Be Latino discusses the personal experiences of Latinos in America, as well as their feelings about...

Poet laureate Langston Hughes is featured in this brief biography highlighting his vast collection of writings, particularly his poetry, which drew upon racial and self awareness in America. See "Langston Hughes Activities" for related...

Arthur Miller is presented in this biography for his plays revolving around post-World War II America, paying particular attention to the middle class and effects of Communism. See "Arthur Miller Activities" for related materials.

Quick reference guide to the American Film Institute's top ten list of the greatest Courtroom Drama movies as picked by the results of a poll taken of leaders from the creative community. Number one is "To Kill a Mockingbird" which was...

From the PBS series, American Masters, this is the biography for the American playwright Lillian Hellman.

From the PBS series, American Masters, this is the biography for the American playwright Neil Simon.

The passion of Revolutionary literature is found in pamphlets, the most popular form of political literature of the day. Over 2,000 pamphlets were published during the Revolution. The pamphlets thrilled patriots and threatened loyalists;...

This site gives a listing of JudyLee Oliva's plays and publications. You can click on the link "Synopsis", and a page will come up with a description of the different plays.