Tableau: using extract from Blood Brothers

Learning intentions

  • We are learning to adopt a role through the use of tableau.

What to look for

  • Pupils responding appropriately to the key question
  • Pupils reporting back and justifying their responses appropriately
  • Pupils presenting an effective tableau in light of the evidence from the key questions
  • Pupils evaluating by taking into account the characters and the performance skills involved
  • Pupils using tableau effectively in pairs

Learning activities

Choose a suitable extract, and give it to the pupils to read in pairs.

Discuss the extract together in open class. Pose a key question for them to discuss in their pairs:

  • Think about the differences between the two characters and their different class backgrounds.

Ask each pair to share their response to the key question with the whole group.

Put them into groups of either 3–4 or 5–6. Have them set up a family portrait for each character using the information from the key question.

Give them time to rehearse their tableau in groups and demonstrate it in a carousel.

Choose one group of pupils to ask questions and evaluate what the other groups have done.

In pairs, give them time to read the text again and cast the roles.

Again in groups, have them create three key tableaux from the extract to show the class difference of the characters through gesture, facial expression and pose.

Encourage each group to present their tableaux to the class and their peers. Assess their work using success criteria as a guideline for two stars and a wish.