However, the only way you can accomplish that is if they are writing the script. The first thing you want to do as a teacher is select a story based on student interests and abilities. A teacher's selection should contain interesting characters, a lot of dialogue, but a simple plot. After text is selected allow students to work together to formulate their own dialogue. While they are working on it, the teacher should become a facilitator, being there to answer questions and modeling the proper behaviors. When the script is finished make sure all students have a copy of the script. You want everyone to be able to take part in the story and follow along. The teacher introduces the play by reading the introduction and giving an idea of what the setting is and lists the characters for the students. From this information, maybe begin formulating predictions with the students from their prior knowledge of the subject. From this prior knowledge, students can predict events possibly going to happen in the play and roles of characters. Many teachers when using Readers" Theatre read the first scene of the play or just pointing out the print principles of plays. Such things that you might want to point out would be that characters" names are in capitals or bold. These are not read but are used as signals for them. Also, instruct students not to read the stage directions which are in italics or in parentheses aloud, but try to perform them.
After the teacher has got through the basic principles ask students to volunteer to read the various character parts. After a scene is over or at good stopping points remember to stop and summarize and clear up any questions the students may have about the plot or characters. Students discussion will help them enhance knowledge about the subject. Some teachers when using the method might have another group re-act the scene out so changes can be made to character tones and attitudes.
