Created to assist teachers and administrators in updating drama programs and to provide a foundation for establishing new educational theatre programs, this guide provides practical procedures for developing language and communication abilities, social awareness, and problem solving skills through the theatre arts. The introductory sections of the guide discuss theatre arts nomenclature and the scope of theatre arts. Remaining sections of the guide delineate a comprehensive yet flexible program whereby schools may offer courses based on student interests and local needs. Courses that are described include two courses for grades seven and eight that emphasize creative group activities. The courses proposed for grades nine through twelve include a basic introductory course (Theatre Arts I), the study of the cultural contributions of the theatre and basic principles of production (Theatre Arts II, III, and IV), an option for technically oriented students (Technical Theatre I and II), and a cocurricular laboratory for the exploration, development, and synthesis of all the elements of theatre (Theatre Production I and IV). Each of the descriptions for these courses lists components and objectives. (RL)