INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA, GRADES 7 & 8

COURSE SYLLABUS 2014-2015

INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Alexis Farnsworth (Farnsworth@fultonschools.org)

Course Description: Introduction to Drama is a nine- week course designed to give the
student a basic overview of the subject as well as the opportunity to participate in a main stage
production. This course involves a brief study of theatrical history; the development of theatre
vocabulary; the use of analyzing performance and written works; and the exploring of aspects
of theatre production, character development and playwriting. Students will participate in
writing and performing a monologue, improvising a scene, and creating a script with a group of
writers for an audience. This course also aims to develop a sense of cooperation and self-
confidence among students.
Materials for Class: We will not be using a textbook for this course, but students are required
to bring a writing utensil and notebook to each class, as well as any course materials I have
provided.

National Theatrical Standards for Middle School:
Content Standard #1: Script writing by the creation of improvisations and scripted scenes
based on personal experience and heritage, imagination, literature, and history
Content Standard #2: Acting by developing basic acting skills to portray characters who
interact in improvised and scripted scenes
Content Standard #3: Designing by developing environments for improvised and scripted
scenes
Content Standard #4: Directing by organizing rehearsals for improvised and scripted scenes
Content Standard #7: Analyzing, evaluating, and constructing meanings from improvised and
scripted scenes and from theatre, film, television, and electronic media productions

Course Objectives:
Develop sense of self as related to theatre
Train imagination, body and voice
Act and interact in dramatic activities with full involvement
Use movement and vocal techniques to express character
Develop pantomime and improvisational skills
Execute blocking, memorization and a variety of rehearsal techniques
Display discipline as both an actor and audience member
Explore script writing based on improvisation
Evaluate theatre performances
Develop a professional audition piece and supporting materials
Perform in front of an audience

Unit Overview:
Weeks 1 - 2: Researching the History of Drama and Theatre
Week 3: Befriending Shakespeare
Week 4: Analyzing the Dramatic Character through Monologue
Weeks 5-7: Reading, Writing, and Acting the Script
Week 8: Improvisation and Metaphor
Week 9: Reflecting on our Performances
*Units are subject to change depending on students talents and interests.


INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA, GRADES 7 & 8
COURSE SYLLABUS 2014-2015
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Alexis Farnsworth (Farnsworth@fultonschools.org)
Grades will be weighted as follows:
45% Performances. Students will perform several selections in class and will be assessed
on quality and preparation. Students must be prepared when called upon to perform or
receive no credit for the assignment. Performances also involve analyzing selections,
completing written assignments, and reflecting upon ones work.
35% Tests and Paperwork. Students will be held accountable for the material studied in
class by taking tests and producing supporting paperwork. Work must be turned in on time
to receive credit.
20% Citizenship. Because theatre is an ensemble-oriented class, a students citizenship
grade is incorporated into the academic grade. This is evaluated through attitude,
participation and time on task as related to the objectives of this course.

Important Notices:
I will be following PDWs discipline procedure in my class and will not tolerate any
disturbances while students are performing. Students who continually create a disruptive
atmosphere are in danger of being removed from the course.

Because we are a first year program, we will not yet be putting on a full performance. However,
drama students will have first dibs on a part in producing and/or performing in our school-
wide Talent Show.

PARENTAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF DRAMA SYLLABUS
My signature below indicates that I have reviewed the course syllabus with my child. I am aware of the
grading and recovery policies set forth by Paul D. West Middle School and agree to assist my child at
home with the content of this course.
Parents Name:
______________________________________________________________________________
Last First
Email Address:_________________________________________________________________
Phone # to use: ________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature:
_____________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature:______________________________________________________________
Class Web Page for important documents throughout the year: http://professorfarns.weebly.com