Title: Broadway Explorers

Grade Level: Middle School (6th-8th Grade)

Duration: 5 class periods (45 minutes each)

Objective:
1. Introduce middle school students to the history, key elements, and creative aspects
of Broadway musicals.
2. Foster critical thinking and teamwork through interactive and engaging mini-
activities.
3. Develop an appreciation for the performing arts and storytelling in the context of
Broadway.

Materials:
1. Whiteboard and markers
2. Access to a computer or projector for multimedia presentations
3. Handouts and worksheets
4. Access to Broadway musical soundtracks (online or CDs)
5. Art supplies for creative activities
6. Optional: Costumes, simple props, and musical instruments for mini-activities

Day 1: Broadway Beginnings

Introduction to Broadway (15 minutes):
Discuss what students know about Broadway and its significance in the world of theater.
Show a brief video highlighting iconic Broadway moments.
Define key terms: Broadway, musical, libretto, and choreography.
Timeline of Broadway (30 minutes):
Present a brief history of Broadway, emphasizing key milestones and significant musicals.
Discuss the evolution of musical theater from the early 20th century to the present day.
Group Activity: Have students create a timeline of Broadway musicals, adding important
events and shows.

Day 2: Elements of Broadway

Key Elements Discussion (20 minutes):
Review the essential elements of a Broadway musical: music, plot, characters, choreography, and
set design.
Showcase examples from iconic musicals to illustrate each element.
Analyzing a Musical (25 minutes):
Assign each student or group a specific Broadway musical.
Students analyze the chosen musical's elements and present their findings to the class.
Emphasize critical thinking by discussing what makes each element effective.

Day 3: Behind the Scenes

Backstage Exploration (25 minutes):
Discuss the roles of different professionals involved in creating a Broadway musical (e.g.,
director, choreographer, costume designer).
Show behind-the-scenes clips to provide insight into the production process.
Role Play (20 minutes):
Students engage in a role-playing activity, taking on different roles in the creation of a Broadway
musical (e.g., director, actor, costume designer).
Encourage creative thinking and teamwork.

Day 4: Contemporary Broadway

Modern Musicals (20 minutes):
Discuss the current state of Broadway and highlight some recent and popular musicals.
Explore the influence of technology and social media on the promotion and accessibility of
Broadway shows.
Group Activity: Create a Modern Musical (25 minutes):
Divide students into small groups and challenge them to create the concept for a modern
Broadway musical.
Each group presents their ideas, including the plot, characters, and a snippet of a song or dance.

Day 5: Showcase and Reflection

Final Project Preparation (30 minutes):
Allow time for students to finalize any outstanding projects or prepare for presentations.

Showcase and Reflection (45 minutes):

Students present their projects to the class, showcasing their understanding of Broadway
musicals.
After each presentation, facilitate a brief discussion about what they learned and enjoyed during
the lesson.

Assessment:
Participation in discussions and activities.
Quality of group presentations and projects.
Reflection on the final day about what students found most interesting or surprising about
Broadway musicals