Course Plan: Exploration of a Script in Drama for Grade 9
Course Introduction
In this 7-lesson course, students will delve into the world of theatrical scripts, exploring various elements that contribute to successful dramatic writing and performance. The course aims to enhance students' understanding of script analysis, character development, thematic exploration, and the overall structure of a play. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, practical activities, and collaborative projects, students will gain insights that will not only enhance their appreciation of drama but also develop their skills in scriptwriting and interpretation.
Course Goals
- Goal 1: Understand the key components of dramatic literature, including plot, character, dialogue, and setting.
- Goal 2: Analyze a selected script to uncover its themes, motifs, and stylistic devices.
- Goal 3: Develop skills in interpreting scripts from both a performance and a writing perspective.
Course Aims
- A1: To encourage critical thinking and analytical skills when examining dramatic texts.
- A2: To foster creativity and expressiveness in both writing and performance.
- A3: To promote collaboration and teamwork through group activities and projects.
Lesson Plan Overview
Module 1: Introduction to Scriptwriting
Lesson 1: What is a Script?
- Overview of the elements of a script (character, dialogue, stage directions).
- Discuss different types of scripts (plays, screenplays, teleplays).
Activities: Group discussion and a short quiz on script terminology.
Lesson 2: Structure of a Play
- Introduction to the structure: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution.
- Discuss classical vs. contemporary structures.
Activities: Analyze the structure of a well-known play.
Module 2: Character Development and Dialogue
Lesson 3: Building Characters
- Explore character types: protagonist, antagonist, supporting characters.
- Discuss character arcs and development.
Activities: Create character profiles for a chosen script.
Lesson 4: Writing Effective Dialogue
- Techniques for writing realistic dialogue that reveals character.
- Discuss subtext and how actions can speak louder than words.
Activities: Practice writing dialogue scenes in pairs.
Module 3: Thematic Exploration and Analysis
Lesson 5: Themes in Drama
- Define themes and motifs; explore how they are presented in scripts.
- Analyze the themes from the chosen script.
Activities: Group presentations on themes identified in different scripts.
Lesson 6: Directorial Perspective
- Discuss how directors interpret scripts and make artistic choices.
- Explore the impact of staging, blocking, and design.
Activities: Create a short director’s vision statement for a scene from the script.
Module 4: Script Performance and Reflection
Lesson 7: From Page to Stage
- Apply learned concepts by staging a short scene from the script.
- Performance workshop: focus on character interpretation and delivery.
Activities: Present scenes in class and provide peer feedback; jam session for reflections on what the students learned throughout the course.
References
- Carter, D. (2016). The Art of Theatre: A Concise Introduction. Pearson.
- Benedetti, J. (1998). The Craft of Writing: Exercises and Techniques for Playwriting. Heinemann.
- Abbot, J. (2012). Acting and Character Animation: The Missing Link. Lime Orchard.
- Aristotle. (1996). Poetics. Translation and commentary by Stephen Halliwell. Harvard University Press.
- Miller, A. (2003). The Theater Essays of Arthur Miller. Da Capo Press.
This plan outlines a comprehensive framework for engaging students with the idea of script exploration in drama, encouraging not only knowledge acquisition but also creativity and collaboration amongst peers.