What should be the primary focus of integrating drama in ELL classrooms?

The primary focus of integrating drama in ELL classrooms should be on facilitating meaningful language interactions. Drama provides a dynamic and immersive environment where students can actively engage in speaking, listening, and using language in context. Through role-playing, improvisation, and story enactment, learners are encouraged to express themselves and collaborate with peers, which significantly enhances their communicative competence and confidence.

This approach allows students to practice language in a context that mimics real-life situations, breaking down linguistic barriers and fostering a deeper understanding of language use. Moreover, drama can engage students emotionally, making language learning more relevant and enjoyable, leading to better retention and application of new vocabulary and structures. These interactions are essential for developing proficiency, as they replicate the authentic exchanges found in everyday communication.