Rising Water

Rising Water is the third book in the Integrated Skills Through Drama series, coursebooks that teach pragmatics and communication skills through original one-act plays for students. Perfect for drama club, an elective class, or a class project, the Integrated Skills series is highly flexible and adaptable to fit any classroom. 

 

The play Rising Water raises the question of why teenagers love risk and the benefits to being an out-of-control teen. The main character, Ajax, has a hard time fitting into the rigid world of school and books. He wants to do the right thing, but his inability to follow the rules keeps getting him into trouble. When a trip downtown turns into a battle against the forces of nature, Ajax’s adventurous spirit may be the only way to save his family. 

 

While teaching pragmatics and communication skills, the play and accompanying readings raise questions about climate change, communities during disasters, and the teenage brain. Create a fun, dynamic classroom environment with this new and creative teaching method that teaches: 

 

• Pronunciation Practice: Choosing which word to emphasize in a sentence 

• Pragmatics Practice: Making sincere or insincere offers, responding to Offers 

• Production Skills: Learning a part and staging plays for students 

• Attentive Listening: The benefits of risky behavior 

• Readings on climate change, natural disasters, how disasters bring communities together, the teenage brain. 

• Creative Writing: Adapting the script, rewriting the script, writing a sequel.