Simulations/ Role Playing 

 

Definition:

Simulations and role-playing allow students to participate and interact with topics being studied in class. A circumstance is set up and students assume roles of characters in the given situation. This practice enables students to apply knowledge, analyze and evaluate conditions, and synthesis events as they interact with the curriculum. These activities are designed to involve students affectively while exciting students to want to learn more. Encompassing cooperative learning, many of the activities stress critical thinking skills and /or cognitive review of text-based material. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to observe life from an entirely different perspective, which can provide insight and understanding to others' dilemmas. 

 

Steps:

·        Teacher would present a situation to the class that involves the students in assuming a role of a character in the scenario. 

·        Students would be given time to prepare for their response by the character in the situation.

·        Students would act out the part in response to the situation.

·        Class discussion would be held concerning relevance to the curriculum.

 

When to use:

Simulations and role-playing can be used for the purposes of introduction, review, or as part of the closure process.

 

Resources:

Fisher, Max W., American History Simulations, Teacher Created Materials, Inc., Huntington Beach, CA, 1993.

Example:www.buyteachercreated.com/Product3.asp?ID=480(Click on sample pages)