lesson
Stage directions are not spoken dialogue
1 · Learn
Original scene: 'Ari: We still have time. [He folds the timetable and looks away.] Jo: Then why will you not show me the departure time?' Dialogue gives speech; a stage direction supplies an action for performance.
Ari's words and action can create uncertainty. An actor can show the glance without speaking the bracketed instruction. Discuss a plausible interpretation while recognising that the scene does not give the whole story.
2 · Worked example
I read Ari's spoken sentence, perform the folding action and leave the direction unspoken. His action may make the reassurance seem doubtful.
3 · Your turn
What makes Jo question Ari's reassurance?
Check your answer
Ari folds the timetable and looks away rather than showing the departure time; Jo's question draws attention to this.
4 · Apply your learning
Perform the scene with two different plausible tones, then justify each using the same text.
Adult guidance and safety
Read the supplied text together if needed. Accept well-supported alternative interpretations, not invented evidence. Use wider whole books, poems and plays alongside these short original models; provide specific feedback on writing and revisit spelling over time.
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