Fifth and sixth-graders at the Caroline G. Atkinson Elementary School in Freeport combined the arts with academics recently during a “prep rally” designed to prepare them for the state-
mandated English language arts (ELA) exams held between Jan. 9 and 18. The event served
to bolster their confidence and reinforce previously reviewed test-taking techniques.
The children performed a play called “Bubble or No Bubble,” a parody of the popular TV game show, “Deal or No Deal.” In it, a student falls asleep the night before the exam and dreams he’s a contestant on the show. The youngster is asked a series of test-taking related questions and receives help from an audience of his peers. When he wakes up, he realizes it was all a dream – yet he’s more than ready for his exam.
Other children performed commercials which also featured tips on taking the test.
“We wanted the children to be motivated and do well. Instead of lecturing them, we gave them the opportunity to prepare for the exam by using the arts,” said Patricia Belfi, a teacher on special assignment at the school. “This activity helped them to feel good about themselves before taking the exam.”
The play was written by sixth-grade teacher Christina Schwarz. Students from the 21st Century Drama Program, the Freeport Pride Step team, and others from Ms. Schwarz’ class were involved in the production.
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