The table below consists of over 300 words that can be used as drama stimuli and prompts for scene creation in the classroom. The words in the table belong to the following categories, but are randomly arranged:
Example
Students or the teacher can choose up to three words at a time. Selected words will be highlighted in the table. Clicking on one of the selected words will deselect it, which can be replaced by another word if desired. Here’s an example of how three randomly chosen words from the table below can be used as stimuli for a drama scene in the classroom. Let’s say the three words chosen are:
- Betrayal
- Forest
- Rescue
Drama Scene Based on the Chosen Words
Scene Context
The scene takes place deep in a mysterious forest. A group of friends had set out on a camping trip, but things have gone wrong. One of the friends, Alex, has gone missing under suspicious circumstances, and the group believes someone among them may have betrayed Alex. Tensions rise as they search for Alex, and secrets come to light.
Scene Outline
Setting:
The scene is set in a dark, dense forest. The characters are huddled together, trying to find Alex, who disappeared earlier in the night. The sound of wind rustling through the trees adds to the sense of danger and isolation.
Characters:
- Chris: The leader of the group, determined to rescue Alex but starting to suspect foul play.
- Jordan: Nervous and on edge, hiding something but unwilling to admit it.
- Taylor: Trying to keep the group together, but frustrated with the growing tension.
Plot:
As the group searches for Alex, Chris accuses Jordan of leading Alex into danger, suggesting that Jordan has betrayed their trust. Jordan becomes defensive, and Taylor steps in to mediate, suggesting that their main priority should be rescuing Alex. The scene builds as the characters argue, with Chris pushing Jordan for answers, and Jordan finally revealing a secret about Alex that changes the dynamics of their friendship. Just as they decide to put their differences aside, they hear a faint cry for help in the distance, and they race off into the forest to rescue Alex.
How the Words Inspire the Scene
Betrayal: This word drives the conflict. One character feels betrayed by another, which leads to tension and suspicion within the group. It fuels the emotional stakes of the scene, as the characters grapple with their fractured trust.
Forest: The forest provides the physical setting. It creates a sense of isolation and danger, adding to the urgency of the scene. The dense, dark environment heightens the characters’ fear and uncertainty.
Rescue: This word shapes the objective of the scene. The characters are focused on rescuing Alex, which serves as the goal they must work towards. It also brings the group together, despite their personal conflicts, as they ultimately unite to save their friend.
Students or the teacher can choose up to three words at a time. Selected words will be highlighted in fluorescent green. Clicking on one of the selected words will deselect it, which can be replaced by another word if desired.
Classroom Activity
Preparation: Students can be divided into groups, each receiving or choosing three words from the table as stimuli. Ask students to discuss how the three words might relate to one another and brainstorm possible scenarios.
Performance: Each group creates a short scene based on their chosen words, with a focus on incorporating the themes or settings suggested by the words. Encourage students to think about how each word can influence the characters, setting, and overall conflict of the scene.
Reflection: After performing, students can discuss how they interpreted the words and how those interpretations shaped their scenes. This can lead to a broader discussion on how specific elements (like betrayal or setting) drive dramatic tension and storytelling.
This exercise allows students to creatively engage with abstract concepts, practice collaboration, and develop their improvisation and performance skills.
Drama Stimuli Interactive Word Table
Or, if you would prefer a random selection of any three cells as stimuli for a drama scene, press the RANDOM SELECTION button below!