Using MSCL in the Classroom

[majesty]

Hey, guys!

It's been awhile, but I've been browsing through the site and forum without a lot of time to reply.

Anyway, I wanted to know what you guys thought about using MSCL in the classroom. I hope to be a first year language arts/reading teacher this fall, and I've been thinking of ways to have interesting activities and reading materials for students (I want to teach intermediate/middle school levels).

One thing that's recommended for student interest is scripts. Reading/performing scripts (typically called "reader's theater") is usually something interesting for kids, even struggling readers. Reading them aloud helps students practice reading fluently with expression.

With that idea in mind, I've been thinking, "Why not use scripts from my own favorite shows in the classroom?" I hope to use The Wonder Years, Freaks and Geeks, Are You Afraid of the Dark? and others. I think MSCL would be a good choice for several reasons. Kids in the grade levels I want to teach more than likely will have no idea about the show, which means it will be something new and fresh to them (and, selfishly, I find a particular joy in being the one to introduce my favorite shows to people I know ). Plus, we all know how incredible the writing on the show is, and how wonderful the characters are, so I think it would draw in young kids/teens.

Can any of you help me think of activities for the classroom using MSCL scripts, or perhaps clips? I've thought of some basic things, like having them work in groups to read the scripts, then analyze the characters or plot. Also, they could read a portion of a scene or two, then write their own ending.

I'd appreciate other ideas! Specific episodes/scenes would be helpful.

[Cami A.]

I wish my teachers would have done something like this with me, but honestly, I think MSCL is a little too complex and mature for middle schoolers. I mean the students in it are supposed to be 15, and there are strong themes of sex. It would be better for a upperclassman high school or undergraduate college English course. I do really envy your position though. Teaching MSCL? What a dream!

[Natasha (candygirl)]

There are some existing topics about this:
http://www.mscl.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1642
http://www.mscl.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=3409

[majesty]

Cami, that crossed my mind. I think it would be best if I edited the scripts, for variou


Sorry, natasha! I can venture to the other threads.

[4alifetime]

My husband is an English teacher in a middle school and I am constantly telling him to use MSCL! You can easily edit or use scenes that are appropriate for different age levels.

[bbecham]

well i use it sometimes.