Innovative Teacher Brings Shakespeare to Life for Students
An innovative approach to teaching classic literature is taking shape at Burleson High School in North Texas, where English teacher Christopher Webb is redefining how students engage with Shakespeare. Recognizing the challenges that often accompany understanding the Bard’s works, Webb employs a dynamic method aimed at making the material relatable to teenagers.
In Webb’s classroom, traditional reading of plays is set aside. Instead, students watch performances and discuss the emotional weight behind the characters’ experiences. “First off, we don’t read the play. We read parts of it, and we kind of go through it, but we watch it, because the whole intent was to watch the play,” Webb explained. This method not only helps students grasp the narrative but also encourages them to connect with the characters on a personal level.
During a recent class focused on Hamlet, students were prompted to share personal stresses, drawing parallels to the emotional turmoil faced by the play’s protagonist. Senior Alex Espanosa remarked, “I’m kind of struggling with learning sometimes. I’m in the need of, like, really needing someone, like, sit down with me and, like, feed it to my brain.” Such candid discussions foster an environment where students feel comfortable exploring their emotions while delving into Shakespeare’s complex themes.
The class atmosphere is vibrant, with students actively engaging in conversations about emotional handling. Kinley Holt, another senior, noted the importance of connecting the literature to their own lives. “We study. We break down the speeches. But it’s important to make connections to the work because it’s not just about stodgy reading something from 500 years ago,” Holt stated.
Webb’s teaching style emphasizes the relevance of classic literature in today’s world. By breaking down Shakespeare’s works and relating them to modern experiences, he successfully captivates his students’ attention. His unique approach has made a lasting impact, with students expressing appreciation for his ability to keep them engaged.
This method of teaching not only breaks the barrier of traditional literature classes but also highlights the necessity of emotional literacy in education. As students grapple with the relatable themes in Shakespeare’s plays, they develop skills that extend beyond academics. Webb’s commitment to connecting with his students demonstrates a profound understanding of their needs and the importance of fostering a love for literature.
Overall, the efforts of Christopher Webb at Burleson High School showcase how educators can innovate to enhance learning experiences. By bridging the gap between classic literature and modern-day challenges, he inspires students to embrace Shakespeare in a way that resonates personally and profoundly.
