ARTS LEARNING 8
Drama Module
North Surrey Secondary
Course Rationale:
Drama is a discipline that originates in the impulse to depict experiences, communicate an understanding of these experiences, and give them form and meaning. It has evolved over time to include a variety of forms and techniques. Drama education provides opportunities to examine human experiences through imagined roles and situations and to value the essential contribution of drama to the quality of life.
Program Units: (the order of units may change) 4.5 weeks total…
- Staging Basics & Terminology
- Drama Games - Ensemble Building & Acting Skills Development
- Improvisation Performance & Character Development
· Character Walks – Elements of Movement Physically Explored
- Dramatic Reading Performance of Pop Songs – Elements of Voice Explored
- Twisted Fairytales Performances
- Scene Creation Performances
Assessment and Evaluation:
Students will be assessed in a variety of ways: one on one interviews, self/peer evaluations, & teacher observations of work. All assessment is based on criteria clearly stated to the student at the beginning of each lesson and unit/project.
Active Learning Performances (100%) - Made up of two different types:
- Formative Process Performances/Learning Activities -
These are the in class performances that you create throughout the year. They will usually be the ‘less rehearsed’ pieces that we do in our class. They will follow the “Know, Do, Understand” model and use the creative process. These should help prepare you for our summative performances.
- Summative Performances - These will usually be, but are not limited to, the final performance in a unit that we are studying. Tableux’s, Scene Creation Performances, Character Walks, Dramatic Readings, and a Twisted Fairytale Performance
This includes a focus on Ensemble PAE - Participation, Attitude and Effort
This class will prepare you for Drama 9 rotation next year!
Grade 8 Theatre Acting Class – Student Learning Roadmap
Staging Basics:
· Know & Apply Stage Directions
· What is Picturization
· How to Block a Scene on Stage
· Build Focus on Stage / Mental Discipline
Vocal Exploration:
Used to tell stories, create characters, and communicate the character’s emotions & subtext. Using the following language manipulation tools:
· Pitch
· Pace/Tempo
· Pause
· Tone
· Stressing Select Words
Movement & Physical Exploration:
Used to tell stories, create characters, and communicate the character’s emotions and subtext. Using the following physical manipulation tools:
· Space (direct/indirect) and movement patterns
· Weight (strong/light)
· Time (sudden-quick/sustained)
· Flow (bound/free)
· Pace (fast/slow)
· Pauses (stillness/movement)
· Levels (high/low)
· Gestures & Facial Expressions
· Character Walks
· Basic Mime Actions
Acting Techniques:
Emotional Believability Through:
· Objectives - In the moment Objective (ITMO)
· Actions/Tactics
Script Study/Text Analysis:
· High Light Lines / Honour Lines
Ensemble Techniques:
· Intensity = Energy + Focus (Commitment to the Moment)
· Chemistry & Trust Development
· Team Work
Improvisation:
· Making & Accepting Offers
· Advancing
· Character Development