How do you start your year with rambunctious 9th graders in a beginning acting class? How do you get them to focus on movements, facial expressions and gestures? How do you get them to feel less self-conscious in front of others. Don't give them a monologue! Give them 9 weeks of pantomime. I have created a 9 week unit which I would love to share with you. We will pantomime objects, animals and occupations. We will also pantomime situations with conflict, so we can learn how to resolve conflicts without violence. And last, we will create small group pantomimes. Expect to be tired at the end!