Remote learning may have impacted how we teach, but it has not changed what we teach.  The end of the fourth-grade year is typically marked by the fourth graders’ performance of Shakespeare’s plays.

Although the children won’t be performing on the stage of Hajjar Auditorium, they have studied the plays, chosen their roles and they are practicing their lines. As a way of immersing them in the language of the day, we hosted a special workshop lead by a very special guest.

“De-da … de-da … de-da … de-da” could be heard during an all fourth grade Zoom on Tuesday, May 19th

Ms. Erica Schroeder, a Professional Voice-Over Actor and D-E parent, led all 43 students in a wonderful Shakespeare Workshop that introduced the students to sonnets and iambic pentameter.  Ms. Schroeder taught the 4th graders about the difference between prose and poetry, how to interpret and read Shakespeare’s sonnets and how the rules of sonnets can change pronunciation of words.  When the word, ‘banished’ was read as ‘bani – shed,’ all the students giggled but understood how to read a Shakespearean Sonnet!  A huge THANK YOU to Ms. Schroeder for sharing her talents and passion with us!  

Although there will not be a larger gathering for a live performance, each teacher is determined to use the play to showcase and celebrate the children’s hard work this spring.