What should third graders be taught to identify as part of their learning in theatre?

Teaching third graders to identify the five basic elements of a story is crucial for their overall understanding of theatre and storytelling. The five basic elements—characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution—form the foundation of both theatrical works and written narratives. By grasping these elements, young students can better analyze and appreciate the structure of stories they encounter in plays, films, and literature.

This foundation supports their ability to engage with theatre both as creators and audience members. Recognizing these components allows them to think critically about character motivations, the setting's impact on the plot, and how conflict drives the story forward, fostering greater comprehension and enjoyment of the arts.

The other options, while valuable in different contexts, focus on more advanced or specific areas of theatre. Famous playwrights may be an interesting topic, but at the third-grade level, students are still developing foundational skills. Comic acting styles, though entertaining, are more suited to older students who have a clear understanding of the basic elements of storytelling. Types of theatre also require a level of comprehension that is typically beyond the scope of third graders, as it involves the classification of various forms and styles that they may not have been exposed to in depth.