Introduce students to the vibrant world of Commedia Dell’Arte with this fully resourced KS3 Drama scheme of work. Through a combination of practical performance activities, historical context, scripted scenes, improvisation tasks and knowledge retrieval, students develop a strong understanding of this influential theatrical style.

This resource includes a detailed lesson PowerPoint, a comprehensive Commedia character sheet covering key stock characters and movement techniques, and three hilarious scripted extracts from Pantalone Throws a Fit!, packed with slapstick comedy and opportunities for exaggerated performance.

Students explore stock characters, status, leading body parts, physical comedy, stage configurations, improvisation and performance skills while learning about the history and conventions of Commedia Dell’Arte. Regular quizzes, peer-assessment opportunities and rehearsal tasks support progress throughout the unit.

Perfect for KS3 Drama teachers seeking a ready-to-teach, engaging unit that develops confidence, creativity, physical theatre skills and theatrical knowledge with minimal preparation required.