Slapstick Study

Your class will be rolling on the floor laughing, literally, as you discover the joys of slapstick comedy!

First, define what slapstick comedy is with your class and discover where it came from, investigating the Italian Harlequin character from commedia dell’arte.

Next, get inspired by the Tom and Jerry cartoon Johann Mouse or A Bird in the Head starring The Three Stooges to show your students how slapstick has permeated pop culture and how the art form has evolved since its inception.

Once your class has an understanding of what slapstick is, challenge your students to find slapstick in their daily life. This may be a funny video they see on social media, an SNL sketch or a silent film.

Once everyone has their slapstick clip, ask them to bring it in and play it for the class in your own mini-festival of comedy. Now, you’ll really make ’em laugh!