Fragments – From Disconnection to Connectedness

Fragments (the stage play/playscript, novella and web series) follows eight high school students as they navigate school, friendships, identity and life.

Issues explored in the work include self-identity, belonging, academic pressure, family dysfunction, social media, bullying and mental health (anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, neurodivergence, gender dysphoria). Educators are encouraged to let the author know which themes are most appropriate for their students.

In whole group and small group scenarios, students will engage with the key themes selected for the session, through readings, discussion, dramatisation and writing activities. The session explores the characters’ fragmented selves – what they feel vs how they present publicly – and the power of connection. All activities and discussions will be carefully tailored to the year level(s) in the participating groups.

This workshop serves as a stepping stone or introduction into further in-class exploration of selected themes.

Topics covered:

HPE: Identities and change

• What influences identity?
• How can we manage change?
• What are stereotypes and what impact do they have?

HPE: Interacting with others

• Strategies for developing and maintaining healthy relationships
• How can we promote inclusion?
• How do we manage and communicate emotions?

Personal and Social Capability

• Self-awareness and management
• Social awareness and management