Role Play 1 : The River Code

This role-play involves four volunteers (three men and one woman) who encounter a flooded river while trying to reach a function. A farmer offers to carry the two men across, but the woman refuses and asks to be guided by stepping stones, insisting the farmer show her where to step. The role-play highlights different approaches to help and the importance of respecting individual needs and choices, rather than imposing solutions. Community reflection focuses on real-life “flooded rivers” (problems like bad roads), how help is offered, and the lessons learned about guidance versus force.

Summary

The River Code-

Four volunteers (three men, one woman) act out meeting a flooded river. Two men let a farmer carry them across. The woman refuses to be carried—she asks to be shown safe steps instead. The play shows the power of choice, guidance, and working together to cross obstacles.

Key Takeaways

What I Observed

I saw that using a simple role play with 24 drama club students helped them openly connect the story to their daily struggle with the poor, muddy road to school. They felt safe to share ideas and showed they understand their challenges and can suggest solutions.

What I Learned

I learned that young students can think deeply and give real solutions if guided well. The play showed that people want guidance and choice, not to be forced. Role plays and open talks empower students to see that they can work together to solve local problems like fixing bad roads.

Group Observations

What did we observe?

  1. People handle the same problem differently — some want help, others
         want guidance.
  2. Guiding people builds confidence and dignity.
  3. Good support respects choices and doesn’t control.
  4. Role plays help even young students connect stories to real problems
        like bad roads.
  5. The farmer showed true community leadership by helping selflessly.

Lessons Learned

Lessons Learned?

  1. Empowerment helps people solve problems on their own.
  2. Support should listen, guide, and adapt to people’s real needs.
  3. No single solution fits everyone — help must be flexible.
  4. Children can think deeply when included meaningfully.
  5. Safe, open spaces help people share and find solutions.
  6. Community teamwork and kindness drive real change.