The following describes each aspect of the curriculum guide:
Introduction: The introduction provides teachers with a statement of the approach to middle years drama that is taken throughout the guide, an explanation of the three components, and a discussion of the elements of theatre form that are basic to the attainment of successful experiences in drama.
Yearly Overview Chart: This chart provides an outline of the various aspects of the curriculum components and an overview of the four units for each grade. The chart visually displays how the three components are integrated in each unit.
Foundational Objectives Developmental Chart: This chart shows the scope and sequence of drama from grade six to grade eight.
Foundational Objectives: The foundational objectives describe the required content of the grade. Each foundational objective is accompanied by an explanatory paragraph and a list of some learning objectives that reflect the intent of the foundational objective. Guided by the information contained in the explanatory paragraph, the teacher may derive other learning objectives that also reflect the intent of the foundational objective. Detailed criteria for evaluation are also included.
Planning from the Drama Curriculum Guide: This describes a step-by-step guide to using the drama curriculum.
The Yearly Plan for the Middle Years Drama Class: This section explains a process that will support teachers in planning contextual dramas and developing collective creations with their students.
Looking At Plays: This describes a seven-step process that is intended to help teachers guide their students to create more significance and derive greater enjoyment out of their experiences as playgoers.
Unit Overviews: The overviews display, at a glance, information about each unit. These include the time frame, foundational objectives, specific Common Essential Learnings, vocabulary and concepts, resources, guidelines for structuring the dramas, and assessment strategies.
Model Units: The model units provide teachers with a guide to the variety of topics, strategies, and processes that can be incorporated into the structure and actual development of drama experiences with students. However, the model units are not required; nor are they intended to be used as scripts. The essence of classroom drama is that each group of students must be provided with opportunities to shape its own drama by creating the drama's action and determining its course.
Suggested Activities for Unit Three: The activities provided are only suggestions. They are not in themselves lesson plans. The suggestions are meant as starting points for planning. They may be adapted for integration with other subject areas.
Indian, Métis and Inuit Content: Indian, Métis and Inuit content and perspectives should be incorporated into drama work throughout the year, as appropriate.
Teacher Notes: "Teacher Note" boxes appear frequently throughout the guide and links to Teacher Notes appear on every page of the model units. These contain tips or additional information that may further facilitate the teacher's understanding and planning of drama for the classroom.
Glossary: A glossary provides very basic definitions of terms used in the drama curriculum.
Appendix: The appendix at the end of the drama strand provides teachers with suggestions for the use of student journals in the drama classroom.