Drama
Course Description This course aims to help students read drama, analyze the elements of drama, respond to dramatic works, and act out dramatic works in front of an audience. This course will include many aspects of the communication process, relying heavily on the public speaking end. For those of you who remember Phyllis Ross, this class will attempt to put on a performance for the community, much like those that she created years ago.
Objectives All students will:
A. Read carefully a substantial number of dramatic texts, including comedies, tragedies, and specimens of other types.
B. Analyze texts through close reading, so that they can identify aspects, such as characterization, plot structure, and symbolism, which interact to produce the artistic effect and meaning of the work.
C. Reason inductively about drama; for example, by examining specific instances in the play being analyzed, students will practice recognizing meaningful patterns in language and incident and identifying themes.
D. Engage in focused discussion of drama.E. Discriminate between the various characterizations included in one play or monologue and be able to compare and contrast those characterizations.
F. Categorize the basics of the communication process .
G. Participate in competitive speech and master the basics of the Speech Curriculum.
H. Participate in multiple plays throughout the year.
Materials Copies of various plays and monologues will be provided to you. There is not a textbook for this class. You will be expected to aid in making, providing, or finding costumes for yourself and others as the year progresses.J
Grades Grades will be based on a variety of assignments. However, there will be emphasis on students willingness learn lines, characterization, and other aspects that will effect the outcome of a performance. Acting is the key component to this class. Not every individual is a natural, but every individual can continue to improve-and that is what your grades during “play” time will be based upon-IMPROVEMENT!
Class Percentage Earned | Grade Given on Report Card |
100%-90% | A+, A, A- |
89%-80% | B+, B, B- |
79%-70% | C+, C, C- |
69%-60% | D+, D, D- |
59%-Lower | F, results in failing the class L |
Behavioral Expectations RESPECT-The golden rule. Treat others as you want to be treated. Your rights end where someone else’s rights begin. Simply put, I expect my students to respect themselves, others, myself and other staff members, and the classroom as a learning environment. The great thing about respect is the more you give, the more you earn! No food or drink in class! No headphones in class.
Conferences and Teacher Contact Information I encourage you to meet with me outside of class when you need help. There may also be instances when I insist on conference time. I will be available during my prep hour, which is 2nd period, or after school.