CONTRA COSTA COLLEGE
THEORY OF ACTING
Spring 2009 Course Syllabus
Drama 120: Section 0716 Tu/Th 11:10 – 12:30 pm
INSTRUCTORS
Office hours may be arranged with individual instructors by appointment. Please email or call the instructor to set up an appointment or to communicate any other needs. Email is the best form of communication. When e-mailing, please mark the Subject with your complete name & “Drama 120.”
Kathryn McCarty Phone 235-7800 ext. 4964 Email:KathyGPET@aol.com
Email:KathyGPET@aol.comTerrence Tyrie Ivory Phone 235-7800 ext. 4962 Email: ttivory@yahoo.com
Phone 235-7800 ext. 4962 Email: ttivory@yahoo.comWelcome to ACTING! Take a Breath. Stretch. Relax. Have FUN!
This class will engage all aspects of yourself: your mind, body, voice, and spirit. You will experience a new way of learning and discover things about yourself and others that will support you in all aspects of your life. The class is co-taught by 2 members of the Drama Faculty, all of whom are current working professionals in Bay Area Theater. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the technique of acting as well as script and scene analysis and the preparation of a monologue. You will also be exposed to the technical aspects of producing a play, and assist with the marketing and presentation of a professional theater production.
WEBPAGE
http://cccdrama.homestead.com
Check out the Drama website!
On it you will find information about what’s happening in the department and in class. This web page is for your convenience. However, it is not a guaranteed way to get the complete information about an assignment or class activity. To do that, you must be in class when the assignment is given. Assignments you will find online: * Tell Tale Heart Script *Improv Game Assignment *Center Exercise * Character Analysis Assignment * Improv YouTube Assignment * Monologue 101 Assignment *Website of Shakespeare Sonnets
Please note: If you are using the Campus library to do your assignments, please show them your syllabus. The librarians may question your watching “Whos Line Is It Anyway” on Youtube, and your syllabus is proof that it is a legitimate assignment.
REQUIRED CLASS MATERIALS
•3 x 5 index cards for the Scene Work section of the course work (Begins Oct. 8)
3 x 5 index cards for the Scene Work section of the course work (Begins Oct. 8)•Journal (First Day of Class)
Journal (First Day of Class)•“The Glass Menagerie” text purchased at the bookstore. (Due Oct. 1)
“The Glass Menagerie” text purchased at the bookstore. (Due Oct. 1)DRAMA JOURNAL
Students are required to keep a JOURNAL for this class. In class writing assignments as well as your own thoughts about your experience of class exercises will be recorded in this journal. The journal will provide a record of experiences and a forum for self-evaluation throughout the semester.
Put your name on the OUTSIDE of the journal.
Put your name on the OUTSIDE of the journal.Write in your journal after EVERY class period. When an instructor lectures, you MUST take notes.
Write in your journal after EVERY class period. When an instructor lectures, you MUST take notes.On the left side of the journal record what we did in class. Be very specific with the details of the exercises. Thoroughly record what went on in class.
On the left side of the journal record what we did in class. Be very specific with the details of the exercises. Thoroughly record what went on in class. On the right side record what your experience was like. How does it affect your life? What did you learn about acting or about yourself? How did you feel while participating?
On the right side record what your experience was like. How does it affect your life? What did you learn about acting or about yourself? How did you feel while participating? Only TYPED journals will be qualify for “A” or “B” grades. You must write in INK. If the writing is not clearly legible (with no effort to decipher your penmanship), it will not be graded, and student will receive no points. Final journals must be typed.
Only TYPED journals will be qualify for “A” or “B” grades. You must write in INK. If the writing is not clearly legible (with no effort to decipher your penmanship), it will not be graded, and student will receive no points. Final journals must be typed. In addition, instructors will assign critical thinking topics for you to write on in your journal.
PLAYS
Mandatory: You will be assigned to read, study, and memorize a monologue from A Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, which is available for purchase in the campus bookstore.
Optional: Our Town, by Thornton Wilder. For the purpose of play reading date, scripts will be provided. The play is also on the CCC Drama Website.
Plays will be read in small groups at the following lab sessions. THE GLASS MENAGERIE play reading is mandatory. Please bring your copy of the play with you.
PLAY READING DATES AND TIMES:
The Glass MenagerieThursday Oct. 1 4 – 6:30 pm
Thursday Oct. 1 4 – 6:30 pmOur TownTuesday, Sept. 224 – 6:30 pm
Tuesday, Sept. 224 – 6:30 pmUNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE ACTOR’S INSTRUMENT
This unit will introduce vocal and physical exercises that provide a technical foundation for acting. Exploration of physical and vocal range, size, qualities, and articulation will be accompanied by discovering voice and movement as the root of expression and storytelling.
Weeks 1-2 Aug. 18-Aug. 27
Aug. 18-Aug. 27The Actor’s Warm up – Physical and vocal techniques to explore range & quality
The Actor’s Warm up – Physical and vocal techniques to explore range & qualityUsing movement and voice to tell a story
Using movement and voice to tell a storyStage Directions and composition basics
Stage Directions and composition basicsHomework Assignment: Memorize 3 assigned lines of Edgar Allen Poe’s A Tell-tale Heart, Due Aug. 25
Memorize 3 assigned lines of Edgar Allen Poe’s A Tell-tale Heart, Due Aug. 25In Class Presentation: Group storytelling of A Tell-tale Heart by Edgar Allen Poe on Tues, Aug. 27
Group storytelling of A Tell-tale Heart by Edgar Allen Poe on Tues, Aug. 27UNIT 2: SCORING TEXT/SHAKESPEARE SONNET
This unit explores how the Actor studies text, and how the Dramatist uses textual elements.
Weeks 3 – 4 Sept. 1 – Sept. 8
Sept. 1 – Sept. 8Exploring Meter & Text
Exploring Meter & TextExploring Punctuation
Exploring PunctuationDynamics
DynamicsHomework Assignment: Choose a Shakespearean Sonnet August 27. Bring to class. (Sonnet link on website)
Homework Assignment Score triple spaced, typed Sonnet Due Sept. 8
Homework Assignment: Perform Memorized Sonnet: Sept. 8
UNIT 3: IMPROVISATION AND THE ACTORS PLATFORM
Unit 2, taught by instructor Kathy McCarty, will introduce the four components of the Actor’s Platform: Character, Relationship, Objective and Location. These tools, used to create a scene, will be explored through lecture, in class improvisation, and homework assignments.
Weeks 4– 8 Sept. 10 – Oct. 6
Sept. 10 – Oct. 6The Actor’s Platform – Character, Relationship, Objective, and Location
The Actor’s Platform – Character, Relationship, Objective, and LocationImprovisational Theater Games to develop and explore the Platform
Improvisational Theater Games to develop and explore the PlatformThe Physicalization of Character
The Physicalization of CharacterHomework Assignment: “Who’s Line” study and Center exercise due Sept. 15
Homework Assignment: “What is A Monologue” & Notetaking of “Monologue 10”1 Due Sept. 29
Optional Lab Assignment: Play reading of “Our Town” Tuesday, Sept. 22 4 – 6:30 p.m. Value 5 points.
JOURNAL CHECK: Turn in journals on Sept. 17!
UNIT 4: EXPLORATION OF SCENE WORK
Unit 4, taught by Mr. Ivory, will apply learned concepts to the further exploration and development of scenes. Students will present spoken scenes in class.
Weeks 8-13October 8– November 10
October 8– November 10Scene Analysis
Scene AnalysisIntroducing the 3 Poses Assignment
Introducing the 3 Poses AssignmentFinding and using your Aces in Performance
Finding and using your Aces in PerformanceDuring the scene work section, students MUST MEMORIZE the assigned scene from The Glass Menagerie. The assigned scene starts on page 73 and ends at the bottom of page 77. The scene starts with Jim’s line: “ You say you’ve heard me sing?” Then culminates with Laura’s line: “You were always surrounded by your own friends so much that I never had a chance to.” Men in the class are to memorize the role of Jim. Women are to memorize the role of Laura. For the scene work final, students must wear clothing that suggests the time period. Students are required to bring 50 index cards to class for specific note taking assignments.
Homework Assignment: 3 Poses Assignment Due OCT. 15 Choose Glass Menagerie Monologue and begin memorizing
3 Poses Assignment Due OCT. 15 Choose Glass Menagerie Monologue and begin memorizing In Class presentation:Glass Menagerie Scene Work Final Nov. 5 & 10
Glass Menagerie Scene Work Final Nov. 5 & 10 Macbeth, by William Shakespeare, Directed by Clay David
Performances Oct. 29, 30, 31
Plan to usher and attend. Bring your friends!!!! Bring your family!
MANDATORY LAB: Usher for the show. Details to follow. Value: 6 points.
MANDATORY LAB: Attend performance of Macbeth and write a 2-page critique. This is SEPARATE from the ushering assignment. 6 points.
OPTIONAL LAB: Attend 3 rehearsals of Macbeth & the PERFORMANCE and WRITE a process paper. Rehearsals must be in 3 separate weeks of the rehearsal process, one at the beginning, on in the middle and one in the end. Rehearsal schedule will be posted 8 points.
JOURNAL CHECK: Turn in journals on Oct. 29!
UNIT 5: DEVELOPMENT OF A MONOLOGUE
Classes in this unit, co-taught by Mr. Ivory and Ms. McCarty, will apply learned material from the semester’s work to the memorization, shaping, and performance of a monologue from a play.
Weeks 13-17November 12 – December 10
13-17November 12 – December 10Techniques for memorization
Techniques for memorizationAudition protocol
Audition protocolShaping a monologue for performance
Shaping a monologue for performanceHomework Assignment: Monologue Scored for Punctuation, Subtext and Beat changes. Due Nov. 12
Homework Assignment: Monologue MemorizedDue Nov. 24
Due Nov. 24Homework Assignment: 3 Poses Assignment for MONOLOGUES Due Dec. 1
Due Dec. 1In Class Presentation:Practice presentation of memorized monologue on December 3
Practice presentation of memorized monologue on December 3Mandatory Lab:Ushering/Attendance “It’s My Line” Dec. 4&5.
Ushering/Attendance “It’s My Line” Dec. 4&5.CHARACTER ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT DUE
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 19
There will be an oral presentation of Character Analysis.
Late Character Analysis will result in lowering of grade 50 points.
LAB OPTION: SPEECH NITE, a performance showcasing the Speech, Departments will be on NOVEMBER 19. You are to attend the show ($5 admission), and write a 2 page critique. Value: 6 Points.
“It’s My Line” Improv, DECEMBER 4 & 5. 7 p.m.
MANDATORY LAB: Usher for the show. Details to follow. Value: 6 points.
MANDATORY LAB: Attend performance of Macbeth and write a 2-page critique. This is SEPARATE from the ushering assignment. 6 points.
JOURNAL CHECK: final journals on December 8.
Note: Only TYPED journals will be considered for an “A” or “B” grade.
DOCUMENTATION OF ALL LAB HOURS IS DUE ON DECEMBER 8
Week 18FINALS WEEKDecember 15 11-12:40 p.m.
FINALS WEEKDecember 15 11-12:40 p.m.In Class Presentation: Final performance of memorized monologue.
In Class Presentation: Final performance of memorized monologue. Completion of this assignment is mandatory. Failure to show up for your final, without contacting a faculty member is likely to result in a failing grade for the course.
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LEARNING A THEATRICAL ART IS LARGELY ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH PRACTICE.
ABSENCE POLICY:
As each unit is only 4 - 6 weeks long, being absent for even one class means you will miss a significant portion of instruction. Therefore, absences are STRONGLY DISCOURAGED.
MULTIPLE ABSENCES WILL AFFECT YOUR ABILITY TO LEARN CLASS MATERIAL ADEQUATELY.
If you know you will be absent, you must notify the instructor beforehand. All absences by MCHS students will be reported to MCHS administration. The instructor may ask for proof of your absence (doctor’s note, for example). If you miss a significant number of classes due to extenuating circumstances (death in family; serious illness; family crisis) you must immediately contact a faculty member to arrange an Incomplete for the course. The incomplete must be fulfilled within a period of one year. Failure to do so will likely result in a failing grade for the course.
DON’T BE LATE! Multiple late arrivals compromise your class work and inconvenience your acting partners. Latecomers may be asked to observe and will not receive participation credit for that day.
DRESS CODE FOR CLASS PERIODS
This is a movement and acting class. It requires you to wear clothes that you can move in and clothes that you can sweat in. Students who are not appropriately dressed will be asked to observe and will not receive participation credit for that class.
SHOES:Sneakers are preferred. No flip flops, high heels, or sandals.
Sneakers are preferred. No flip flops, high heels, or sandals.PANTSWear pants you can stretch in – i.e., not too tight, not too baggy. Sweat pants are ideal.
Wear pants you can stretch in – i.e., not too tight, not too baggy. Sweat pants are ideal.HAIR:Hair must be tied back, out of the face.
Hair must be tied back, out of the face.JEWELRY:No dangly jewelry, large hoops, bulky bracelets or long necklaces.
No dangly jewelry, large hoops, bulky bracelets or long necklaces. HATS:Students may be asked to remove hats when working on stage
Students may be asked to remove hats when working on stageAnd, of course…NO CELL PHONES, IPODS, CD PLAYERS, DVD PLAYERS, or other electronic gadgets of any kind. KEEP IT ON SILENT AND IN YOUR BAG.
And, of course….Plagiarism will not be tolerated and will result in a failing grade for the project.
Plagiarism is the usage of someone else’s words without crediting the author.
All Analytical Work, Critiques should be in your OWN WORDS.
Please, do not copy and paste from the web (Spark Notes, Googled Text) or a book.
Your professors run plagiarism checks on each of your papers.
STUDENT ASSESSMENT
Learning a theatrical art is largely accomplished through practice. Practice in this course will be reflected by the achievement of grading points. Your grade will be assessed as follows:
300 pts Course Work – 150 pts achievable for your class work for each instructor including daily
Course Work – 150 pts achievable for your class work for each instructor including daily participation and assignments.
200 ptsLab Assignments – based on completing all lab assignments
Lab Assignments – based on completing all lab assignments150 ptsMonologue #1 – memorization, performance, scoring & analysis
Monologue #1 – memorization, performance, scoring & analysis 50 ptsMonologue Memorized
Monologue Memorized 200 ptsCharacter Analysis Assignment
Character Analysis Assignment100 ptsJournal
Journal 1000 ptsTOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS
TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTSGrading:
900 – 1000A
A800 – 999B
B600 – 799C
C500 – 699D
D0 - 499F
FIMPORTANT DATES
Late Registration Aug. 17-28 Last Day to Drop class Aug. 28
Last Day to choose Pass/No Pass Grade, Last day to withdraw Sept. 11
Last day to withdraw with a W Nov. 20
CLASS REQUIREMENTS
•Arrive at class prepared to work. Class will start PROMPTLY. Latecomers may be asked to observe and will not receive participation credit for that class.
Arrive at class prepared to work. Class will start PROMPTLY. Latecomers may be asked to observe and will not receive participation credit for that class.•Wear clothes and shoes that do not restrict free and easy movement
Wear clothes and shoes that do not restrict free and easy movement•Participation in this course requires active involvement in the class exercises, scene work, and discussion. Come to class prepared to participate.
Participation in this course requires active involvement in the class exercises, scene work, and discussion. Come to class prepared to participate.•You must attend class for the entire class period. Coming late or leaving early is strongly discouraged. ALWAYS discuss attendance conflicts with the instructor beforehand.
You must attend class for the entire class period. Coming late or leaving early is strongly discouraged. ALWAYS discuss attendance conflicts with the instructor beforehand.•If you have a history of absences YOU MAY BE DROPPED. Talk to the instructor if you are missing more than 3 classes.
If you have a history of absences YOU MAY BE DROPPED. Talk to the instructor if you are missing more than 3 classes. •Assignments are due in the first 15 minutes of class. After that, they will be marked late.
Assignments are due in the first 15 minutes of class. After that, they will be marked late.•All drama students must attend a minimum of 2 performing arts events (play or musical) as an audience member.
All drama students must attend a minimum of 2 performing arts events (play or musical) as an audience member. CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE
•This class requires us to work together, collaboratively and creatively. Please see and honor all fellow students as members of a creative team.
This class requires us to work together, collaboratively and creatively. Please see and honor all fellow students as members of a creative team. •Disruption of the classroom, berating others for their opinions, talking inappropriately to others will NOT be tolerated and will affect your grade.
Disruption of the classroom, berating others for their opinions, talking inappropriately to others will NOT be tolerated and will affect your grade.•Sleeping in class will not be tolerated.
Sleeping in class will not be tolerated.•We uphold a non-harassment policy in the building at all times. Harassment will be seen as verbal and non-verbal crossing of boundaries. Absolutely no derogatory remarks will be tolerated. If you are made to feel uncomfortable by another student, please make it immediately known to the instructor.
We uphold a non-harassment policy in the building at all times. Harassment will be seen as verbal and non-verbal crossing of boundaries. Absolutely no derogatory remarks will be tolerated. If you are made to feel uncomfortable by another student, please make it immediately known to the instructor.•Active and respectful listening is required. Talking during a performance by your peers will result in and “F” grade for that exercise and for the participation grade of that class.
Active and respectful listening is required. Talking during a performance by your peers will result in and “F” grade for that exercise and for the participation grade of that class.•Coming to class under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted.
Coming to class under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted.•All cell phones, beepers, music and other electronic gadgets must be turned OFF.
All cell phones, beepers, music and other electronic gadgets must be turned OFF. RESPECT YOUR WORK, STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE,
AND PRESENT YOUR BEST
Lab Hours Requirement Drama 120 Instructors: Terrence Tyrie Ivory, Kathy McCarty
Instructors: Terrence Tyrie Ivory, Kathy McCarty All students enrolled for credit in Drama 120 are required to fulfill 54 points of lab work. The purpose of lab work is to expand your experience of theatre. This is done through reading plays, attending plays, designing or participating in a production aspect of a play, attending additional master classes and other related events. Doing more lab hours than required will result in extra credit and help improve your grade. Unless otherwise discussed with your instructor:
(1) 18 points must be fulfilled through ushering (#1)
(2) 12 points must be fulfilled by attending CCC plays or musicals and writing a critique (#2)
(3) 15 points may be fulfilled by attending open rehearsals, and writinig a process paper (#3)
(4) 6 points may be fulfilled by attending the Glass Menagerie play reading and completing the accompanying written assignment (#4)
(5) 6 points per each Additional Playreadings and Productions TBA.
Extra credit can be earned by your choice of the other activities listed below. We highly mandate attending outside theatrical performances! PLEASE CALENDAR IN THE ABOVE DATES INTO YOUR SCHEDULE NOW.
Note: MANDATORY LAB ACTIVITIES ARE IN BOLD.
#1. Mandatory: Ushering: All students must assist faculty member Kathy McCarty with front of house duties (ushering and concessions) at the following Knox Repertory Season productions:
Macbeth October 29, 30, 31 at the Knox Center . Show starts at 8 pm. Ushers arrive at the theater at 7 pm.
It’s My Line Improv Dec. 4 & 5 at the Knox Center.. Show starts at 7 pm. Ushers arrive at the theater at 6 pm.
Requirements: Sign up for 3 ushering dates. You must dress appropriately (or you will be sent home). . If you are a no show, you will lose the equivalent number of hours. Value: 6 pts. each event..
#2. Mandatory: Attend the CCC Drama Dept Productions of (Macbeth & It’s My Line) . Present your program, a ticket stub and a two page (type-written, double spaced) critical REVIEW (NOT a plot synopsis) of the performance. What did you like about the show and why? Do NOT write about the plot. Your opinion on the theatrical elements (Acting, Directing, Design, Playwrighting) is essential. Value: 6 lab points for each production. You may NOT usher & attend the play on the same evening.
#3 OPEN REHEARSALS for Macbeth
Attend 3 open rehearsals for the play. You will need to check the callboard for the Macbeth rehearsal schedule. You will need to attend ONCE a week (beginning the week of October 6) for a 2 hour rehearsal period, in addition to watching the final performance. You will need to (1) take notes on the rehearsal (2) write a process paper on the development of the play from start to finish. 15 points.
#4. Glass Menagerie Play reading: Date: Thursday, Oct. 1 3:30-5:30. Completion of the written assignment accompanying the reading will net 6 lab pts.
#7 Attend a play, musical, improv or dance performance. Professor McCarty will be arranging some shows at area theatres that you can attend for a nominal cost (usually $5-$15) or you can search sfgate.com, bayareanewsgroup.com, theatrebayarea.org or another area newspaper which has Theatre Listings/Events calendar and find a show to attend. Shows at area high schools & churches are also eligible. Please check the CCC website for campus events such as Dance Concerts, and Music Concerts &, which are also eligible.
Extra Credit activities. Please do not limit yourself to these. Use your imagination and your interest in the Arts to come up with other ideas. Here are some examples.
A. Read a play and design the set and costumes for at least 4 characters. (Google search “Costume Renderings” for ideas on how to do this.) Value: Minimum 6 points.
B. Write a play. No less than 5 pages. Must show 2 rough drafts. Must have a clear beginning, middle and end and be in proper form (Google search this, there are many websites with examples). You may earn extra points for getting actors together and doing a reading of your piece. Value: Minimum 6 points.
C. Perform an additional memorized and rehearsed monologue or scene for the class from Our Town . You must read the play the monologue is from. Value: 6 points Performances will be December 1.
D. Help with publicity. 1.) Post 15 flyers for a Knox Repertory Season production at local businesses, café’s and libraries and return with a list of where you posted them. Value: 3 points 2.) Make an announcement in a minimum of 4 classes (other than drama) about a Knox Repertory Season production. Explain what, when and where it is, and how much tickets are. Present a signed note from the teacher indicating that you did the announcement and the date. Value: 2 points 3.) Send an email to 15 or more friends or family about an upcoming Drama Department production. CC a faculty member on the email. Value: 2 points.
E. Attend an audition for a play or musical either at another theater. Write a 2 page summary. Value: 6 points
F. Attend another theatrical performance (music, dance, spoken word, cultural festival performance) and present your program, a ticket stub and a one page critical review of the performance you saw. What did you like about the show and why? Was the acting good? Why? How was the set used by the performers?. Do NOT write about the plot. Value: 6 points.
G. Attend an outside class in movement, martial arts, voice, improvisation, music or other related field . Write a 1 - 2 page synopsis of the class. What exercises did you do? What did you learn? Explain the class. Staple the paper to a class schedule/school brochure signed by the instructor. Value: 6 points.
H. Read a play (that is not in the curriculum of another class) and write a 1 – 2 page typed review. Value: 6 pts.
I Perform Should you be involved in a performance at a theatre, church, community center, you may keep a rehearsal, performance journal of your work. 10 Points.
J. Show 1: RIVETS! Sign up sheets on callboard, one complimentary ticket per student. Maximum 15 comps available per performance, so please sign up quickly. Friday, Sept 4 or Saturday Sept. 5 at 8 p.m. or Sunday, Sept. 6 at 3 p.m. Location: Aboard the SS Red Oak Victory. Attend the show and write a 2 page critique. Show information & directions: Galateanplayers.com Value: 6 Points.
Show 2: MAIDS & MATRONS Tickets are available at (925) 943-SHOW. Performance dates are Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat, August 19-22 at 8:15 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 23 at 2:15 p.m. at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Discount Price: $11.50 (1/2 price) When ordering tickets, you must identify yourself as a Contra Costa College Drama student to get a discounted ticket. If you are a student with an extreme financial hardship, please speak to Professor McCarty. Attend the show and write a 2 page critique. Value: 6 points.
Information on other shows in the area will be located on the Callboard and Greenroom! K. “The Piano Lesson” Film of the play, and discussion November 3 4:00-6:30 Performing Arts Center, with Mr. Ivory
SPECIAL NOTES: Many items may all be repeated – please check with your instructor. All written papers must be typed, double spaced, 12 point type, 1 inch margins. Please check the callboard for additional lab assignments.
Turn in evidence of the completed project as you finish it. Do not wait until the end of the semester. You may turn in your work to any of the faculty listed on your syllabus. Your progress on fulfilling lab points will be recorded by that instructor.
Note: Students who are performing in either “Macbeth” or “It’s My Line” will receive the equivalent lab points for ushering/attending by maintaining a TYPED journal of the rehearsal/performance process.
. ALL LAB POINTS MUST BE FULFILLED BY DECEMBER 8
RUBRICS: CHARACTER ANALYSIS
CRITICAL THINKING: A rubric for assessing students ability to locate, analyze, and apply information along with developing writing skills through the Character Analysis Worksheet. Oral presentation component will be based upon the same criteria. Worksheet is on Drama Website!
“Excellent / Superior” (A) (100 – 90 pts.)
•Analysis is thorough and insightful with specific detail.
Analysis is thorough and insightful with specific detail.•Organized, logical, professionally presented, and free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Organized, logical, professionally presented, and free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.•Display and Graphics are aesthetically pleasing with clear photos and well developed timelines.
Display and Graphics are aesthetically pleasing with clear photos and well developed timelines.•Analysis displays a high level of critical thinking and creativity in answering all questions.
Analysis displays a high level of critical thinking and creativity in answering all questions.•Analysis displays a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.
Analysis displays a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.“Very Good / Above Average” (B) (89 – 80 pts.)
•Analysis is thorough and insightful with specific detail, however 1-5 answers are incorrect.
Analysis is thorough and insightful with specific detail, however 1-5 answers are incorrect.•Organized, logical, professionally presented, and with a limited (no more than 5) errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Organized, logical, professionally presented, and with a limited (no more than 5) errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.•Display and Graphics are aesthetically pleasing, with clear photos and well developed timelines.
Display and Graphics are aesthetically pleasing, with clear photos and well developed timelines.• Analysis displays a high level of critical thinking and creativity in answering all questions.
Analysis displays a high level of critical thinking and creativity in answering all questions.•Analysis displays a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.
Analysis displays a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.“Adequate” (C) (79 – 70 pts.)
•6-8 Character Analysis questions have been answered incorrectly.(including timeline answers)
6-8 Character Analysis questions have been answered incorrectly.(including timeline answers)•Time lines for the character and historical period are incorrect.
Time lines for the character and historical period are incorrect.•Analysis is not well thought out and lacks in detail.
Analysis is not well thought out and lacks in detail.•Analysis is not well organized, and is in an eligible hand written style.
Analysis is not well organized, and is in an eligible hand written style.•Analysis does not display a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.
Analysis does not display a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.•Analysis lacks in critical thinking and creativity.
Analysis lacks in critical thinking and creativity.“Marginal” or “Deficient” (D) (69 – 60 pts.)
•9-10 Character Analysis questions have been answered incorrectly.
9-10 Character Analysis questions have been answered incorrectly.•Analysis is not well thought out and lacks in detail.
Analysis is not well thought out and lacks in detail.•Display and Graphics are rudimentary. Handwriting is illegible.
Display and Graphics are rudimentary. Handwriting is illegible.•Analysis lacks in critical thinking and creativity in answering Assignment questions.
Analysis lacks in critical thinking and creativity in answering Assignment questions.•Answers lack specificity, consistency, and clarity.
Answers lack specificity, consistency, and clarity.•Analysis contains numerous errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics
Analysis contains numerous errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics•Analysis does not display a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.
Analysis does not display a thorough understanding of the Character as intended by the Playwright.“Incompetence” (F) (59 – 50 pts.)
•Analysis displays an incorrect understanding of the character as defined by the Playwright.
Analysis displays an incorrect understanding of the character as defined by the Playwright.•11 or more Character Analysis Questions are answered incorrectly.
11 or more Character Analysis Questions are answered incorrectly.•Analysis is ineligible, unfocused, incoherent, disorganized, and underdeveloped.
Analysis is ineligible, unfocused, incoherent, disorganized, and underdeveloped.•Serious and persistent errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics that severely interfere with meaning.
Serious and persistent errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics that severely interfere with meaning.•Work displays plagiarism, including time lines that are copied from the web. All time lines must be original graphics by the student.
Work displays plagiarism, including time lines that are copied from the web. All time lines must be original graphics by the student.RUBRICS: IMPROVISATIONAL THEATRE
ORAL COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: A rubric for assessing student’s ability to apply technique, voice and speech, and basic rules of Improvisational Theatre.
Excellent / Superior” (A) (100 – 90 pts.)
•Student completes all homework assignments correctly, in a typewritten form.
Student completes all homework assignments correctly, in a typewritten form.•Student demonstrates effort in all performances and exercises, and works to the best of ability.
Student demonstrates effort in all performances and exercises, and works to the best of ability.•Student understands and incorporates basic Improvisational techniques as given in Class Lecture
Student understands and incorporates basic Improvisational techniques as given in Class Lecture•Student volunteers rather than being called on to participate, and is enthusiastic.
Student volunteers rather than being called on to participate, and is enthusiastic.•Student understands and incorporates usage of a “Platform” when performing.
Student understands and incorporates usage of a “Platform” when performing.•Student’s feedback/critiques of other student’s demonstrate understanding of Improvisational techniques.
Student’s feedback/critiques of other student’s demonstrate understanding of Improvisational techniques.•Student demonstrates good Performance Technique including: remaining open, relaxed and bold. Student speaks loudly and clearly when performing, with undeniable volume and articulation.
Student demonstrates good Performance Technique including: remaining open, relaxed and bold. Student speaks loudly and clearly when performing, with undeniable volume and articulation.“Very Good / Above Average” (B) (89 – 80 pts.)
•All homework assignments are typed, and have 5 or less mistakes.
All homework assignments are typed, and have 5 or less mistakes.•Student demonstrates effort in all performances and exercises, working to the best of their ability.
Student demonstrates effort in all performances and exercises, working to the best of their ability.•Student understands and incorporates basic Improvisational techniques as given in Class Lecture
Student understands and incorporates basic Improvisational techniques as given in Class Lecture•Student volunteers rather than being called on to participate, and is enthusiastic.
Student volunteers rather than being called on to participate, and is enthusiastic.•Student provides good feedback when others are performing.
Student provides good feedback when others are performing.•Student understands and incorporates usage of a “Platform” when performing.
Student understands and incorporates usage of a “Platform” when performing.•Student demonstrate good Performance Technique including: remaining open, relaxed and bold. Student speaks loudly and clearly when performing, with undeniable volume and articulation.
Student demonstrate good Performance Technique including: remaining open, relaxed and bold. Student speaks loudly and clearly when performing, with undeniable volume and articulation.“Adequate” (C) (79 – 70 pts.)
•Homework assignments, have 6 or less mistakes and/or are hand written.
Homework assignments, have 6 or less mistakes and/or are hand written.•Student is hesitant in volunteering for Improv games, and completing exercises.
Student is hesitant in volunteering for Improv games, and completing exercises.•Student fails to incorporate Improvisational techniques as defined in lecture, and can not provide good feedback when others perform.
Student fails to incorporate Improvisational techniques as defined in lecture, and can not provide good feedback when others perform.•Student’s performance technique lacks adequate projection, and fails to stay open.
Student’s performance technique lacks adequate projection, and fails to stay open.•Student displays effort.
Student displays effort.Marginal” or “Deficient” (D) (69 – 60 pts.)
•Homework Assignments have 7 or more mistakes and are in illegible handwriting.
Homework Assignments have 7 or more mistakes and are in illegible handwriting.•Student does not demonstrate effort in participating in Games or Exercises.
Student does not demonstrate effort in participating in Games or Exercises.•Student fails to incorporate Improvisational Theatre techniques as defined in class lecture.
Student fails to incorporate Improvisational Theatre techniques as defined in class lecture.•Student is not focused and distracting, and shows little effort in performing.
Student is not focused and distracting, and shows little effort in performing.•Student does not volunteer for Improv exercises.
Student does not volunteer for Improv exercises.•Student’s technique lacks adequate projection. Student fails to remain open and visible to audience.
Student’s technique lacks adequate projection. Student fails to remain open and visible to audience.“Incompetence” (F) (59 – 50 pts.)
•Student fails to complete all written Homework Assignments.
Student fails to complete all written Homework Assignments.•Student does not demonstrate effort in participating in Games or Exercises.
Student does not demonstrate effort in participating in Games or Exercises.•Student is not focused and distracting.
Student is not focused and distracting.•Student does not volunteer for Improv exercises.
Student does not volunteer for Improv exercises.•Student’s performance technique lacks adequate projection, and fails to stay open.
Student’s performance technique lacks adequate projection, and fails to stay open.•Students shows no effort in trying to improve.
Students shows no effort in trying to improve.RUBRICS: JOURNALS
CRITICAL THINKING: A rubric for assessing students ability to locate, analyze, and apply information along with developing writing skills through JOURNAL ENTRIES.
“Excellent / Superior” (A)
•Displays journal entries for EVERY class starting on the 1st day of class to the 3rd and final
Displays journal entries for EVERY class starting on the 1st day of class to the 3rd and final journal entry due date.
• Submits ALL journal entries TYPED. (Students are accountable for journal entries for
Submits ALL journal entries TYPED. (Students are accountable for journal entries for unexcused or excused absences).
• Journal entries are thorough and insightful with specific detail: clear TITLE HEADINGS of
Journal entries are thorough and insightful with specific detail: clear TITLE HEADINGS of dates, games, exercises, class notes, progress and growth, goals, homework, and reflections with
homework, and reflections with CONSISTENCY.
• Organized, logical, professionally presented, and free from errors in grammar, usage, and
Organized, logical, professionally presented, and free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
“Very Good / Above Average” (B)
•Displays journal entries for class; however missing five journal entries or less
Displays journal entries for class; however missing five journal entries or less•Submits journal entries TYPED; but some entries are neatly hand written.
Submits journal entries TYPED; but some entries are neatly hand written.•Journal entries are specific with TITLE HEADINGS of dates, games, exercises, class notes,
Journal entries are specific with TITLE HEADINGS of dates, games, exercises, class notes, progress and growth, homework, and reflections; HOWEVER, lacks depth and complexity of
thought, analysis, and/or consistency.
•Journal entries are organized, but contains a few minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Journal entries are organized, but contains a few minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.“Adequate” (C)
•Missing more then five journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.
Missing more then five journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.•Submits journal entries in eligible hand written style.
Submits journal entries in eligible hand written style. •Journal Entries are specific with TITLE HEADINGS of dates, games, exercises, class notes,
Journal Entries are specific with TITLE HEADINGS of dates, games, exercises, class notes, progress and growth, homework, and reflections; HOWEVER, provides simplistic, repetitive and
limited thought and effort.
•Journal entries lacks clarity and contains a few minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Journal entries lacks clarity and contains a few minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.“Marginal” or “Deficient” (D)
•Missing more than ten journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.
Missing more than ten journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.•Submits journal entries in hand written style but are not eligible.
Submits journal entries in hand written style but are not eligible.•Journal entries lack specificity, consistency, and clarity.
Journal entries lack specificity, consistency, and clarity.•Journal entries contains numerous errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Journal entries contains numerous errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics.“Incompetence” (F)
•Missing more than fifteen journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.
Missing more than fifteen journal entries or submitted journal entries after the assigned due date.•Journal entries are ineligible, unfocused, incoherent, disorganized, and underdeveloped.
Journal entries are ineligible, unfocused, incoherent, disorganized, and underdeveloped.•Serious and persistent errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics that severely interfere with meaning.
Serious and persistent errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics that severely interfere with meaning.RUBRICS: SCENE/MONOLOGUE WORK
ORAL COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: A rubric for assessing students’ ability to apply technique, voice and speech, movement along with gestures and facial expressions through a scene and monologue.
SCENE WORK AND MONOLOGUE (150 pts.)
•MEMORIZATION: the scene or monologue is memorized according to the assigned text without ad-libs, hesitation or being prompted for line.
MEMORIZATION: the scene or monologue is memorized according to the assigned text without ad-libs, hesitation or being prompted for line.Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5pts• VOICE AND SPEECH: students project with undeniable volume and all words are
VOICE AND SPEECH: students project with undeniable volume and all words are distinctly and clearly pronounced with articulation.
Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5pts• TECHNIQUE & OBJECTIVES: students demonstrate the four critical stages of the slate.
TECHNIQUE & OBJECTIVES: students demonstrate the four critical stages of the slate. 1.) Locate mark and focal point 2.) Students slate their NAME, PLAYWRIGHT’S
NAME, THE TITLE OF THE PLAY, and the name of the CHARACTER along with a
CORDIAL GREETING. Students demonstrate ability to express the character and actor
objectives.
Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5pts• COSTUME/PROPS: students are expected to wear clothing that resembles the character. Also, students are encouraged to use props to aid their performance.
COSTUME/PROPS: students are expected to wear clothing that resembles the character. Also, students are encouraged to use props to aid their performance.Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5pts•PERFORMANCE: students demonstrate purposeful gestures, facial expression and movement to aid their believability. Students show ability to remain open or “cheat-out”
PERFORMANCE: students demonstrate purposeful gestures, facial expression and movement to aid their believability. Students show ability to remain open or “cheat-out” towards the audience. Students show relaxation and boldness.
Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5pts•3 POSES EXERCISE: at specific moments in the scene or monologue students reveal 3 distinct poses to support characterization with natural and energetic movement.
3 POSES EXERCISE: at specific moments in the scene or monologue students reveal 3 distinct poses to support characterization with natural and energetic movement. Excellent 25pts Above Average 20ptsAdequate 15ptsDeficient 10ptsIncompetence 5ptsSTUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE MONOLOGUE MEMORIZED BY
NOVEMBER 24th worth 50 pts.
•MEMORIZATION: the monologue is memorized according to the assigned text without
MEMORIZATION: the monologue is memorized according to the assigned text without ad-libs, hesitation or being prompted for line.
Excellent 50pts Above Average 40ptsAdequate 30ptsDeficient 20ptsIncompetence 10ptsTONGUE TWISTERS FOR VOCAL WARM-UPS
What a to do to die today at a minute or two to two.
A thing distinctly hard to say but harder still to do.
For they'll beat a tattoo at twenty to two.
With a rat-ta-ta-tat-tat-ta-tat- ta -ta- too.
And the dragon will come
When he hears the drum,
at a minute or two to two today.
At a minute or two to two.
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Whether the weather be cold
Whether the weather be hot
We’ll be together, whatever the weather
Whether we like it or not.
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Amidst the mists and coldest frosts,
with stoutest wrists and loudest boasts,
he thrusts his fist against the posts
and still insists he sees the ghosts.
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Give me the gift of a grip-top sock,
A drip drape shipshape tip top sock.
Not your spinslick slapstick slipshod stock,
But a plastic, elastic grip-top sock.
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A big black bug bit a big black bear made the big black bear bleed blood.
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Red leather, Yellow leather, black leather, brown leather
Red leather, yellow leather, bad blood good blood
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I slit the sheet, the sheet I slit, and on the slitted sheet I sit.
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Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.
If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers,
how many pickled peppers did Peter Piper pick?
Character Analysis Worksheet Kathryn McCarty
Kathryn McCartyAn actor should strive to create characters that appear real. This means creating a life from what the playwright gives you, as well as using your imagination to “fill in the blanks.”
Always refer to the character you play in 1st person. Do not say “Tom works at a shoe factory.” Instead, say “I work at a shoe factory.” This is one of the first steps of identifying with your character and personalizing the information.
1. Highlight your character’s lines, as well as anything that another character says about you.
2. In the margins of your script, take notes. What are your thoughts about the character? What is said to your character? How do they react? What is said about your character? Everything the playwright says (and does not say) is a clue to your character.
EXERCISES
Exercise 1. CREATE A TIME LINE FOR YOUR CHARACTER
Part One: Time line should be from your birth to the last date of the play.
A.GIVEN CIRCUMSTANCES. Use all events the playwright gives.
GIVEN CIRCUMSTANCES. Use all events the playwright gives.B.DIVE INTO YOUR IMAGINATION. Fill in what the playwright does not specifically tell you. Denote events which are from the playwright, and which are your imagination; a change in font or highlighter color.
DIVE INTO YOUR IMAGINATION. Fill in what the playwright does not specifically tell you. Denote events which are from the playwright, and which are your imagination; a change in font or highlighter color.Be thorough. Year by year, what events have “you” lived through? Think of the events which define a person – birth, the year your siblings are born, your first love, your first lie, marriage, graduation, parental death or illness, the first time you cheated, first job, first loss, meeting your best friends. Remember: Every single thing that happens to you effects the person you are. It is the same for the character you play.
Part Two: HISTORICAL TIME LINE. What historical events happen during your character’s life-time? The first car? Invention of the microwave? Great Depression? Change in Presidents? War?
Part Three: SHORT ESSAY (Two paragraphs minimum) As an actor, study your character’s time line and your historical timeline. How do current events affect your character?
EXERCISE 2. WRITE 3 DIARY ENTRIES, ALL IN FIRST PERSON.
(Minimum 50 words each). You may choose one of the following topics to base your writing on, or create your own: My biggest dream….When I get out of here…Tomorrow I will….. I blame….. I remember the time….I wish I had more…. I’ve always been ashamed of What bothers me most…My parents think….
When I get out of here…Tomorrow I will….. I blame….. I remember the time….I wish I had more…. I’ve always been ashamed of What bothers me most…My parents think….EXERCISE 3 PICTURES! PICTURES! PICTURES!
Find (or draw) pictures of: (1) Your character at three different ages. (2) The City the play takes place in. (3) The room the action of your monologue takes place in. (4) Three pictures which could have been taken by your character. (5) Two main characters in the play besides yourself. You may use books, magazines, or a search engine, or draw realistic pictures yourself.
You may use books, magazines, or a search engine, or draw realistic pictures yourself.EXERCISE 4 DETAILED SHORT ANSWER
Please type your answers. Please go beyond simple answers, and make sure that the reader of your answers knows your opinion on the subject matter. ANSWER AS YOUR CHARACTER
1. Just before I came into this room, I --
Just before I came into this room, I --2.People often say that my dialect is ____________, and that I talk ______________________.
People often say that my dialect is ____________, and that I talk ______________________.3.My socioeconomic background is --
My socioeconomic background is --4.My culture believes --
My culture believes --5.I work --
I work --6.My typical day is --
My typical day is --7.In my home, _______ people live. They are: (list). I feel ______________ about _________ (list your relationship to each character)
In my home, _______ people live. They are: (list). I feel ______________ about _________ (list your relationship to each character)8.My religion is -
My religion is -9.My political beliefs are --
My political beliefs are --10.My biggest goal --
My biggest goal --11.I am most motivated by --
I am most motivated by --12.The obstacles in my life are --
The obstacles in my life are --13.I plan to overcome my obstacles by --
I plan to overcome my obstacles by --14.I am _______ years old. My astrological sign is --
I am _______ years old. My astrological sign is --15.I have ______ children. I plan to have ______________.
I have ______ children. I plan to have ______________.16.Three deep secrets I have are --
Three deep secrets I have are --17.My greatest fear is -
My greatest fear is -18.The greatest thing I have ever accomplished is –
The greatest thing I have ever accomplished is –19.My biggest dream is –
My biggest dream is –20.The animal I most resemble is __________, because ______________.
The animal I most resemble is __________, because ______________.My character’s center is _______________.
(Remember…your CENTER …is the point on your body that energy/movement originates from.)
List 5-10 Vocal and Physical qualities of your character. a.) How are they different from your own? b.) How are they similar?
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