Redman-Drama8-Syllabus

= ** Welcome to the world of Drama and Theater ** = 8th grade drama builds on many of the skills that you may have learned in 6th and 7th grade drama. You will use your **imagination**, **observation**, **concentration and presentation skills to devise original drama**. In Drama you will do a variety of activities that train your body, mind and voice to be flexible, coordinated, and expressive. Drama will also help you develop a sense of how individuals communicate original ideas. You will be introduced to drama through activities such as improvisation, pantomime, storytelling, characterization, stage directions, and vocal projection.

** Class format **
In this class we will learn about drama and theater through experimentation. There will be group discussion, individual and group tasks, solo and group performances, writing, reading, reflection through discussion and evaluation by teacher and peers. You should volunteer, participate when called on, be an active listener, be willing to offer and receive constructive criticism, treat everyone respectfully, and be willing to explore new learning techniques, approaches and situations.

** Please bring with you to class! **

 * Journal ** – Each student must bring his or her journal and a pen or pencil to class each day.


 * Respect and Readiness to Take Risks ** – Drama will be different from other courses you take in Middle School. Your enjoyment, experience, and learning will be a result of the effort you put into class and your willingness to take risks.


 * Special projects ** - You will be expected to complete a number of hands-on projects that involve the topics of character, acting, scenery, costuming, and play production. We will do our best to find materials here at school, but you may be asked to bring materials from home


 * Participation/Attendance ** - Participation in all class discussions and activities is expected. Attendance is very important, as you cannot participate if you are not in class. A key part of this course is the growth that you show from the beginning of the course to its completion.

WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?


 * TOPIC 1: ** Creating our Theater Environment


 * TOPIC 2: ** Improvisation and Creative Visualization


 * TOPIC 3: ** Play Reading and Play Analysis for the Theater


 * TOPIC 4: ** Playwriting and Devising Drama


 * TOPIC 5: ** Individual and group performing
 * TOPIC 6: ** Performance Skills and Critical Analysis


 * TOPIC 7: ** Directing Theater

Stu dents will be graded on their effort, participation, completion of the assigned task, and demonstration of their understanding of the skill. // No student will ever be graded on the basis of the quality of their acting or design ability, but rather the effort and growth they demonstrate. //