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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

DEPENDENTS SCHOOLS

OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL
NAPLES HIGH SCHOOL
PSC 808 BOX 15
FPO AE 09618-0015 /

August 29, 2014

Dear Parents / Sponsors,

I am very excited to be teaching an entire course dedicated Shakespeare this year! After my own experiences studying and performing at The Globe Theater in London this summer, I believe I have acquired the knowledge and skills to provide your student with a creative, in-depth study that will enhance their high school experience and will benefit them as they go out into the world. To study Shakespeare is to study ourselves as human beings in all our marvelous complexities.

I have posted the DoDEA course description and a copy of my syllabus on my website page www.missballard.com.

I have stressed with the students that there will be a heavy emphasis on active class participation. Shakespeare's plays were written to be performed. So, part of my approach to helping them understand the text will require that they become performers. They will take part in our daily voice and body warm-ups. They will be expected to read aloud and act out different scenes enthusiastically. They will be participating in our production of "A Taste of Shakespeare" dinner theater on Thursday, April 23, 2015 and potentially performances throughout the year as well. Of course, they will be given ample instruction and time to hone their skills before they appear on stage.

On another matter, Shakespeare addresses several mature themes in his plays: sex, murder, suicide, rebellion against parental authority, mental instability, religion, mankind's relationship with God, prejudice, racism, gender ambiguity, and cross-dressing. In addition to his insight into humanity, Shakespeare is also known for his bawdy humor. Students will be exploring these ideas in both the text and several scenes from film adaptations and recorded performances. Some maybe rated R for nudity, violence, and or foul language. Much of it is gratuitous in nature and I will be judicious in my selection and make a sincere and concerted effort to limit their exposure to what I believe is unnecessary to their understanding the text. I have posted a list of ancillary materials that I will be using over the course of the year and will update it as the term progresses, as necessary.

By signing below, you are giving your permission for your student to participate in all aspects of the class, including performances.

Should you have any questions now or as the year progresses, please contact me at .

Parent / Sponsor Signature: ______

Student Signature:______