Creator: BBC | visit site
Grade Range: 8 - 11
<i>Although this page has been archived and is no longer updated, most links are functional.</I> This is a fabulous site for the Shakespeare teacher or simply the Shakespeare fan. It includes all of Willie’s most famous plays done up in student-friendly and attractive, attention-getting form. The challenge is for students to develop their own ’60-second’ bit of Shakespeare. The site includes examples of different formats and offers everything from teacher lesson plans to "master classes" in teaching students how to do things such as audios, films, and photo slideshows as well as the more common newspaper articles and acting classes. The site also allows viewers to "vote" on their favorite renditions. This website requires Windows Media Player or Real Player. You can get either from the <a href="/tools.cfm ">TeachersFirst Toolbox page.</a>.
In the Classroom
Since you can even submit your 60-second Shakespeare piece to the site for posting, this can be a real challenge to classes in competition. Have each class design its own 60-second program. They can use the ones already posted for inspiration. If you choose, you can use plans already posted by Paul Sibson, an IT teaching instructor, or you can pick and choose which ones you want students to attempt (or make better!). Make sure you have written parent permission before submitting student work and are within school policies. If policies prohibit posting on the BBC site, create a private wiki of your own within your school.
At Home