The use of improvisational drama to foster classroom communication about works of literature and about controversial topics of concern to students is described in this paper. After discussing the values of improvisational drama in the English classroom, the paper outlines a five-day sequence of exercises and activities involving relaxation, concentration, communication and awareness of others, sensory development, movement, pantomime, dialogue, and finally improvisation. It then suggests specific exercises that might introduce the study of Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People," noting that similar exercises can be used as approaches to other literary works; points to the value of helping students discuss controversial, nonliterary topics in the English classroom; and suggests a sequence of activities to lead students into improvisation related to such topics. Finally, the paper outlines a 20-day sequence that was followed in a classroom study of alcohol and drug abuse in which students role-played various situations involving drug problems, viewed and reacted to videotapes and films, and wrote and presented a scenario depicting drug abuse and its various ramifications. (GT)