Unit Overview
The course we designed examines comedic theory and practice with a focus on clowning. Because the form allows the actor to celebrate her unique qualities and encourages her to laugh at herself, we thought it would be a perfect tool to teach 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.
We began by teaching the students comedic routines, or lazzis, from the tradition of commedia dell'arte, practiced basic tumbling and pratt falls, examined why physical injury makes us laugh, investigated how comedy can be used as a tool to deconstruct systems or figures of power, and created our own original pieces.
Oh, and, of course, all the students got clown noses.
Our students produced hilarious and thought provoking skits centering around issues that were important to them. Subjects ranged from friendship to satirizing Fox News. It was truly a joy to work with our co-teachers and students.
We began by teaching the students comedic routines, or lazzis, from the tradition of commedia dell'arte, practiced basic tumbling and pratt falls, examined why physical injury makes us laugh, investigated how comedy can be used as a tool to deconstruct systems or figures of power, and created our own original pieces.
Oh, and, of course, all the students got clown noses.
Our students produced hilarious and thought provoking skits centering around issues that were important to them. Subjects ranged from friendship to satirizing Fox News. It was truly a joy to work with our co-teachers and students.
