Year 8 Drama - Shakespeare Week 2
- Sallyann Clark
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
Welcome back to your Shakespeare drama journey! This week, you’ll start unlocking the meaning behind Shakespeare’s words. His language might seem tricky at first, but once you translate it into your own words, it becomes a powerful tool for performance. By the end of this week, you'll understand what Romeo is really saying in his famous balcony speech and feel more confident speaking Shakespeare aloud.
You will need a copy of Romeo and Juliet (unabridged version). Any copy will do.
🎯 This Week’s Objectives
Drama (KS3):
Interpret text and subtext through vocal and physical choices.
Understand how meaning is communicated through language and delivery.
LAMDA Level 2 Shakespeare:
Show understanding of character and context.
Demonstrate an understanding of Shakespearean language and meaning.
Introduction: Shakespeare Charades
Pick 3 famous Shakespeare lines and act them out silently (you can use the lines from Week 1 or make up your own based on what you remember). Use your face and body to express meaning.
Record a 10–20 second clip for each one.
After recording, say the line aloud clearly.
Reflect: Was the meaning clear before you said the words?
Learning: Translating Romeo
You’ll be working with these lines from Romeo’s monologue:
"But soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun. Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon, who is already sick and pale with grief..."
Can you overdo it? Often, we worry about looking silly, but delivering your lines feebly brings no joy to the listener; that's not entertainment.
Watch RSC - Act 2 Scene 2.
Read the balcony scene in your book.
Task:
Read 4–5 lines at a time. Work out what each line means.
Write or record a short summary of the entire monologue in modern English.
Speak It!
Read Romeo’s monologue aloud slowly.
This time, say it as if you’re speaking it to someone you love.
Try changing your tone on each line.
Record and listen back to hear where you put emotion.
✅ Reflect and Self-Assess
Skill | Not Great | Getting Better | Confident |
I can explain what Romeo is saying | ☑️ | ☑️ | ☑️ |
I used emotion in my voice | ☑️ | ☑️ | ☑️ |
I varied tone or pace when speaking | ☑️ | ☑️ | ☑️ |
I can translate lines into modern English | ☑️ | ☑️ | ☑️ |
You’ve taken the first step to understanding Shakespeare’s poetry. Keep your recordings and summaries safe in your drama folder. Next week, you’ll explore rhythm and discover how the beat of the lines helps actors perform with clarity and emotion.
