Role+Playing


 * Role Playing**

Role playing is a process in which one explores the thoughts and feelings of another person by responding and behaving as that person would in a simulated situation. It can involve pairs, groups, or the whole class. Role playing may be used to examine the viewpoints of others and communicate understanding. Role playing gives the distance and safety of role while it provides an opportunity to explore a current, historical, or social issue. It engages students in a text or problem and allows them to apply personal and group skills in assessment of prior knowledge, decision making, and problem solving by examining situations in unfamiliar contexts. Role playing enhances reflection, since feedback and debriefing are integral parts of the process.
 * Description**

The teacher or group leader:
 * Method**
 * determines the educational purposes of the role-play;
 * may be in role or at the side of the drama;
 * may assign roles and manage groups;
 * signals when he or she is in or out of role;
 * chooses roles for specific outcomes;
 * in role, can extend drama, move the action, find a new focus, present alternative viewpoints, elevate the language, and support contributions of the students;
 * models how to role-play and affirm belief in the role.

Role playing:
 * Considerations**
 * requires time to be modelled and practice for students to write and act in role, especially for young children;
 * may be an ongoing strategy to refocus throughout a learning experience;
 * requires a level of risk and trust.


 * Illustrations From The Mathematics Classroom**

[|The Prop Box: Setting the Stage for Meaningful Play] Dramatic play is an essential mode of learning for young children, and "prop boxes," play materials grouped by theme, make this activity even more effective. Find out how you can use these educational tools to guide your students toward meaningful role-playing and creative exploration. Consider setting up a store.
 * Elementary**

Role-Playing Your Way To Math Mastery media type="file" key="Role-Playing Your Way to Math Mastery" width="300" height="300" http://yukon-education-mathematics.wikispaces.com/Online+Resources
 * Secondary**