About the Book:

A resource for anyone working with English Language Learners (ELLs)

The growing number of students who speak English as a second language (ESL) create new challenges for teachers and schools. However, it also creates opportunities for drama teachers to use the tools that are ideal to meet these needs.

In his book In Their Own Words: Drama With Young English Language Learners, Master Teaching Artist Dan Kelin provides detailed strategies for exploring language and communication through drama, as well as springboards to success through story making, reader's theatre, and improvisational plays leading to informal performance. Engaging young English Language Learners (ELLs) through drama challenges them to develop language skills to a purpose; planning and preparing in groups, sharing ongoing drama work, reflecting on their process and accomplishments, and sharing and discussing ideas. Dan Kelin also includes a selection of delightful short tales from around the world, ideal for drama, that add to the richness of this material.

What people say:

"Mr. Kelin offers a wealth of enrichment activities that promote explicit and implicit language development while building English Language Learners' sense of self-efficacy, which may carry over to other facets of their instructional day. Although this book is meant for teachers to experiment with drama activities, it includes gems of wisdom about class management and lesson delivery specifically addressing English Language Learners, which can be applied to other content areas. With poignant stories sprinkled throughout, like the girl who wouldn't talk, or new comers who couldn't, teachers will recognize another capable teacher in the tired and true solutions he offers." — Dr. Percille Boivert, Hawaii State Department of Education ELL Resources Teacher

"Drama With Young English Language Learners is a must-have for any educator who teaches the English language to children in elementary and middle-school grades. Dan Kelin has created a highly practical drama toolbox for building communication skills through story – supported by a deep understanding of how all children learn language. Teachers can use the frameworks outlined in this thoughtful and practical text to engage students in meaningful, active learning experiences that really work." — Carol T. Jones, Director, Alliance Theatre Institute for Educators and Teaching Artists

About the Author:

Daniel A. "Dan" Kelin, II is an American teaching artist, author, and teacher trainer. He has served as the Director of Drama Education for the acclaimed Honolulu Theatre for Youth since 1987. A recognized Master Teaching Artist, he is on the roster of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and has served as an Arts education consultant and trainer for many arts and social services nationally and internationally.