Literacy Through Drama

CAT’s Literacy Through Drama (LTD) program is anchored in using drama to examine the world; in doing so, participants are provided opportunities to explore social and academic literacy.

The in-school, project-based curriculum (developed in close coordination with classroom teachers) directly addresses academic learning objectives in accordance with the Common Core Standards in English Language Arts (ELA) and other subjects with the goal of improving academic skills, socio-emotional health, world readiness and active global citizenship.

The after-school program gives students the ability to express themselves creatively in ways they do not often have during in-school hours. The program is a creative space where participants are accepted and their limits challenged through thoughtful, quality dramatic and creative experiences.

Also Available: NYC Student Shakespeare Festival, CAT Youth Theatre (grades 6 and up), Professional Development

Students will:

• Develop and strengthen their communication and literacy skills
• Improve their critical thinking and social-emotional skills
• Through DYCD partnerships, achieve higher grades or English Language Arts test scores

Participating teachers reported improvements in students’:

• Literacy skills - communication, participation in literacy activities
• Academic skills - viewing/observing, interpreting, distinguishing cause from effect
• Social-emotional skills - stating clear purpose, presentation
• Grades or ELA test scores (DYCD partnership schools)

Participating teachers experience creative, interactive ways to support the NYS Common Core Standards in English Language Arts 

“With CAT this year I learned how to work better with others. I also learned to be more confident with my writing. The program helps develop good listening skills. Thank you for teaching our class this year. I had a blast!” — After-School LTD Participant

• Identity and self-esteem
• Literacy
• Peer/family relationships
• Communication
• Positive alternatives to violence and bullying
• Cultural sensitivity/awareness
• Test prep/college prep/life goals
• Positive alternatives to substance use/abuse

FY19 LTD In-School Team

FY19 Social-Emotional Learning Team

FY19 LTD After-School Team