THEATRE ARTS I-P Heather Reneau

PHILOSOPHY

The Theatre Arts I-P course of the Klein Independent School District will provide students an opportunity to use theatre arts as a means to explore self-awareness, self-concept, and a positive self-image.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Course Title: Theatre Arts I-P
Grade Placement: 9-12
Credit: 1 unit
Prerequisite: None

Theatre Arts I-P is a foundation course which provides a general introduction and exposure to all facets of theatre arts. The course curriculum focuses on the expressive use of the body and voice, acting concepts/skills, theatre production concepts/skills, and aesthetic growth through appreciation of theatrical events. Specific units of study include the following: relaxation and preparatory techniques; pantomime, stage movement, voice and diction, improvisation, dramatic structure, analyzation/interpretation of scripts and characters, interdependence of all theatrical elements, technical theatre, appreciation of theatre, audience etiquette, the analyzation and evaluation of theatrical experiences, and encouragement of attendance at live theatrical experiences.

INSTRUCTIONAL PHILOSPHY

Students must work both collaboratively and independently to achieve success. Consistent attendance and timeliness to class will be required to achieve maximum potential within the course. Students will be evaluated through a rubric on both written and performance work. Students must maintain self disciple to remain focused throughout class, as participation is also a primary grade.

COURSE OUTLINE

The following calendar is simply tentative depending on the mastery of subject matter.

1st Six weeks: Theatrical Terminology, History, and the tools of the actor

2nd Six weeks: Physicalization, Mime, Pantomime, Character building through the body

3rd Six weeks: Voice, diction, articulation, and the Art of Acting

4th Six weeks: Ensemble and working within a group

5th Six weeks: The monologue and production process

6th Six weeks: Group scenes and creating a united performance

GRADING POLICIES

Quizzes, classroom activities, daily work, and rehearsal days (workdays) count 40%. Tests, notebooks, major projects, and acting scenes count 50% Play Critiques and Major Written Projects 10%

PLAY CRITIQUES

Each six weeks all students must write a 1-2 page critique of a written play, a live performance, or a biography of significant figure in Theatrical History. At minimum one of the three papers per semester must be an evaluation of a live performance, students may use different live performances for all three grades per term.

EXTRA CREDIT AND TUTORING

Tutorials are available by appointment. Extra credit is given at the discretion of the teacher. Major grade performances may be repeated for a 70, the students may be requested to attend before or after school

MATERIALS REQUIRED

Writing utensil

Notebook or folder for additional paper work

Computer

Note: It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of all work upon receipt from the teacher. Extra copies will not be given

Expectations in the classroom:

Respect:

For others, for self, for property, and for feelings

Pride:

In work, in peers, in school, in class

Brilliance:

In each assignment, in each performance, in each utterance

Guidelines:

1.  Be in your seat working, with all necessary supplies, when the tardy bell rings.

2.  Allow others the right to learn and the teacher the right to teach.

3.  Raise your hand and be acknowledged before speaking.

4.  Follow all routines, rules, and procedures, no matter who is teaching.

5.  Follow all other rules as outlined in the student handbook.

6.  No roaming the room at any time.

7.  Wear appropriate clothing for the activities of the day. (You will be forewarned).

8.  Respect the property of the teacher and of all others in the room.

9.  Keep the classroom and all theatre areas spotless. Refrain from leaving any personal belongings in the classroom.

10.  Have an open mind and a willingness to perform.

Teacher’s Conference Time: 12:42-1:31

Teacher’s Email Address:

Teacher’s Office Phone: 832-484-4712 Email is always recommended for a speedy response