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RESPONSE TO DRAMA: USING READERS THEATRE TO EXPLORE THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE GUIDE
Annette Bogany-Williams

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My unit focuses on some of the contributors of the Harlem Renaissance and the multicultural themes found throughout the literary pieces they wrote during that time in history. The Harlem Renaissance allowed African American writers, sculptors, lyricists and artists to address social injustice through their medium. Through readers theater, learners will explore this creative period and discover the importance of diversity. This unit will encourage learners to become more tolerable, appreciative and forgiving when interacting with various ethnic groups and cultures. Also, this unit was designed to assist learners in finding their own identity. As they discover the differences and similarities in cultures, they will be led into a truer sense of self-actualization. This unit will empower learners to be more confident about themselves despite the pressures that society my subtly or blatantly try to force upon them. Though several themes can be found throughout African American literature, I will concentrate on double-consciousness and existentialism. It is my belief that these two concepts work together. I have chosen readers theater as my vehicle. Not only is readers theater non-threatening, but it also allows learners the opportunity to use critical thinking skills. Further, oral and written expression skills are sharpened.