Methods II will explore the teaching of literature and composition through the use of performance and technology. The inital focus will be on the plays of Shakespeare (it is possible for Shakespeare to be exciting!), but we will eventually apply performance techniques to a variety of literature.

Performance in the classroom (and no, performance is not merely reading aloud) has proven to be an effective classroom tool for several reasons. It:

 * Gives students a sense of owning the language
 * Makes students feel empowered 
 * Uses scholarship to inform directorial choices
 * Functions as close reading on one's feet
 * Serves all groups of the student population
 * Promotes an active, student-centered classroom

The field of technology is constantly growing.  Everyday computers are becoming more accessible.  Our students are enmeshed in a world of video games and MTV.  Connecting their familiarity with technolog to our classroom's learning environment can have immeasurable benefits.  For this reason the course will also explore effective ways to use film, video, and other media as well as computers and the Internet.  For this phase, the class will: 

 * Develop creative approaches to teach writing with  technology
 * Investigate how to use of the Internet effectively for  student research
* Evaluate teacher Web sites
* Create Web-based assignments through WebQuests and Hyper Text
* Create active lessons with video