Dramatic arts

The study and presentation of scripted plays, including acting and stagecraft. An integral part of the curriculum at many academically superior elementary schools, the dramatic arts are generally relegated to the status of an extracurricular activity in most public schools, except specialized “magnet” high schools (see MAGNET SCHOOLS) for the performing arts. At the elementary school level, dramatic arts can be an important pedagogical vehicle for improving children’s social, motor and language skills and encouraging creativity.
Dramatic arts at the college and graduate school level are offered as both an extracurricular activity and a formal academic offering leading to bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.