School Supported Self-Taught (SSST)

Unit 3: The Transformative Impact of Drama (French, Spanish, Hindi, Korean and Khmer)

In this unit, students will study a theatre play originally written in their language, and in which the author addresses global issues related to privilege, power and justice. In Hindi, students read Matribhumi ka Maan, by Harikrishn Premi. Set in Rajasthan under British rule, this postcolonial epic work explores the themes of patriotism and valour. In Khmer, students read a collection of four short works published in the late 20th century which deal with patriotism, war, justice and power. In Spanish, they read Historia de una escalera, by Antonio Buero Vallejo, a post Spanish War and WW2 play about powerlessness and social exclusion. In French, students read Les fourberies de Scapin, a comedy by Molière, which revolves around the theme of authority in 17th century France. In Korean, students read Marriage, a 20th century play by LeeKang-baek, through which they engage with human concerns such as the essence of possession and true love.

Through the study of these works students will learn about the complexities of contexts, relationships and conflicts, and grow as biliterate and empathetic individuals who are committed to care and critical thinking. Learning activities include focusing on specific techniques used by the playwright, acting some scenes in the play and writing additional ones, as well as completing language work to develop literacy in the mother tongue. Students learn about drama conventions, and understand the significance of elements such as setting, characterisation, symbols and plot structure in creating an impactful play. Students develop an oral presentation based on a specific aspect of the play, such as sound effects, the use of props or conflict, and establish how the playwright is able to make a lasting impression on their audience. They also learn how to make their own oral work impactful, through using a range of effective verbal and non verbal communication strategies… which may include dressing up as their favourite character!

Course AO rubric and Language Skill Rubric

A course highlight: UWC Day Peace celebration in mother tongue languages - 21 September

Students put together a “peace path” on which they wrote colourful messages in their home languages. This made for a beautiful multilingual celebration in SSST class!