Module 1: WHO SAYS

Page 10

Alternative topic two – drama activity: types of authority (continued)

to the teacher

Through this drama activity it is intended that pupils should be led to explore the different sources of authority in their lives and society as a whole.

The dictionary definition of authority is, "The power or right to demand obedience".

Whether people accept or reject authority often depends on:-

• their experience
• their prejudices
• what they have heard other people say

topic development

Having divided the class into groups, give each a different scenario either orally or in written form. Appoint a director for some of the groups, leaving the others without. Give them not more than five minutes to prepare their scene for performance in front of the class. While this is going on, note the acceptance or rejection of the appointed directors and the way in which those with no previously appointed director organise themselves.

suggested drama scenarios (next page - 11)

Ask each group to perform what they have prepared.

After as many scenes have been performed as the time allows, draw out from them what they learnt about authority from their particular scene. There may be one or two groups who have not been able to decide what to do in the given time of five minutes. The experience of those groups for whom you appointed a director will be somewhat different from the others. Were they more or less successful? Why?

Is there any alternative to one person being in authority in any given situation? What is it?

What gives us/others the right to assume authority?