Considering the reading comprehension benefits that the theater arts provide, choosing an age-appropriate piece of literature is essential. While "Rent" may find popularity on the Broadway stage, it isn't exactly acceptable for your fourth-grade class. Pick a classic favorite such as "Alice in Wonderland" or "The Wizard of Oz," or adapt a favorite class story to become a musical. You can use the words of a beloved tale, turning them into sing-song rhymes and adding simple dance steps along to the tune.
Engage all of your little learners, even those who can't carry a tune, by dividing up the creative work. Students who have more of an artistic hand, rather than an artistic voice, can craft creative backdrops and scenery. Help the children create themed drawings on over-sized pieces of cardboard. Use washable, non-toxic poster or tempera paints to add bold hues. Prop the set up against the theater's back wall or create stands with additional pieces of cardboard that you secure to the bottom.
It's unlikely that you would simply send the kids on stage, hoping that they pick up on the music and dance steps without much assistance. Instead, you'll need to devote a significant amount of time to rehearsals. Grade-level classroom teachers can enlist the help of special subject educators -- such as the music teacher, choral director or physical education staff -- to help with the singing and dancing. Set aside classroom time if it's available or schedule a once a week after-school practice for at least six weeks prior to the performance. Encourage the students to practice at home as well, going over their lines or songs with their parents.
When the big day finally arrives, remind your students that their hard work and practice will really pay off in the final product. While older students can get ready to act with little adult assistance, young elementary school children may need extra help. Stand in the wings or sit in the front row to move the musical along, helping out any kids that go blank along the way. Before the first performer hits the stage, ask a parent -- or have someone from the AV department come -- to videotape the musical. You can copy and hand out the tape to the families or have the students watch it to assess how the project went.