This is your guide to Mrs. Ganschow's Drama, English, and Speech classes. Please feel free to explore this site or leave me a message on any of the message boards!

Here is a little information about my background. I received my BA in Theatre from the University of Indianapolis in 2006, and will receive my Masters of Education in Language Arts in 2011. I am very passionate about the arts and I encourage all my students to get involved!

I am very comfortable using many types of technology, including Microsoft Office, creating databases, PowerPoint, website design, and other general computer skills. I want all of my students to be comfortable using technology, no matter what their abilities are. There are many tools available to help students with disabilities. Click on the Technology for Students with LD link or More Assistive Technology link for some helpful tools!

This class will be about learning all aspects of Theatre, including acting fundamentals and technical areas. To familiarize yourself with some of the ideas we will be learning about, click on the Theatre Terms link. We will also be playing some games to get the kids more comfortable on stage. Click on the Theatre Games link to learn more about some of the games we will be playing in class.

This class will consist of reading, writing, and proper usage of grammar.
The Research and Writing link provides useful tips for students when writing a paper.
Also, click on the Classic Literature link for a list containing some of the works that my students will be reading.
Parents, see how many of these you had to read in school!
Since we will be using technology to enhance the way everyone learns, click on the CAI Reading link to see examples of the technology we will be using.

This class will help students with their speech writing and public speaking skills.
Picking a topic is often the hardest part. The Speech Topics link will give students hundred of topics to choose from.
Many people find the idea of public speaking scary. If you are one of those people, try taking a look at these 10 Tips for Public Speaking. One of them may work for you!
We will also be using technology to help improve our speech writing. Click on the CAI Writing link to see an example of how to organize speech ideas!

Here a few useful sites for fellow teachers to check out.
Click on the Teaching English or English with Technology links to learn more about teaching Language Arts.
Check out the Child Drama link for lesson plan ideas in Theatre classes.
The Speaking Resources link has some helpful tips for Speech teachers.
Teachers of all subjects should check out this link which shows how to use Drama Skills in the Classroom.

Valparaiso University
Joanna Ganschow