Download Theatre Arts Syllabi

Grapeland Theatre Arts
Syllabi for Theatre Arts I
2015-2016
Mrs. Tina Nivens
The Theatre Arts course is an introductory course for high school students. It covers the basic
foundations of theatre improvisation, comedy, tragedy, theatre history, musical theatre,
classical theatre, monologues and scene work. Students also gain experience in writing scripts
and basic directing. The student is required to work in some capacity on annual Theatre
production. This can include things like set and costume design, hair and makeup design,
theatre marketing, stage management, set construction and choreography among others.
Seven Reasons to Take a Theatre Class:
1. Theatre builds self-confidence. According to Psychology Today magazine, speaking in front of
people is the number-one fear of most Americans. We call it “stage fright.” Everyone has it. Working
in a theatre class can help overcome that fear. In the theatre, everyone deals with it.
2. Theatre teaches group dynamics. Theatre is a communal experience. It is the kind of work that
involves taking responsibility, interacting with others, solving problems creatively, and accepting team
challenges. In theatre, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
3. Theatre nurtures grace under pressure. All theatrical productions are, in effect, mini-corporations
targeted toward the completion of a project within a specific time frame and budget. Deadlines,
personality clashes, and frustrations are a given—they must be handled gracefully.
4. Theatre develops specific tangible skills. Among these skills are voice training, movement,
carpentry, painting, drafting, engineering, architecture, sewing, interior design, makeup and hair
design, pyrotechnics, stage combat, and much more.
5. Theatre offers a liberal education. In the theatre, you work with everything you’ve got—mind, body,
and heart. Theatre calls for them all to function as one.
6. Theatre fosters creativity. It is a chance to dream and live in a different time and space. One enters
an imaginary world and escapes the realities of everyday life for a brief time.
7. Finally, theatre is the roar of the crowd and the smell of the greasepaint. It is an experience in
which to revel, to learn, and to grow.
Based on the work of Daniel L. Patterson, Associate Professor of Theatre at Keene State College, and Whit Andrews, Executive Director of The
Little Theatre of Winston-Salem, NC.
Course Content Aligned with TEKS:
Students may fulfill fine arts and elective requirements for graduation by successfully completing Theatre Arts 1.
The knowledge and skills pursued in the course will cover four strands:
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Perception: The student develops concepts about self Human relationships and the
environment, using elements of drama conventions of theatre. Examples: improvisation,
preparation /warm ups, movement, voice, text analysis, theatre conventions and
interdependence:
Creative Expression/Performance: The student interprets characters using the voice and the
body expressively and creates dramatizations. The student applies design, directing and
theatre production concepts and skills. Examples: safety, character analysis, acting playwriting
design and technical elements, directing, applied production and specialization.
Historical/ Cultural heritage: The student relates theatre to history, society and culture. i.e.
historical and cultural influences.
Response/Evaluation: The student responds to and evaluates theatre and theatrical
performances. Examples: Theater etiquette, criticism, interdisciplinary, careers and vocational
pursuits.
Grading:
Because everyone comes to theatre from a variety of backgrounds and training, grading will be not be based on
“talent’ or skill level but on EFFORT and GROWTH.
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Daily grades are based on participation
Remember: PROCESS not only PRODUCT will be evaluated.
Grade Weighting
60% Test grades, Major Studio Projects
40% Homework, quizzes, daily assignments, critiques, participation, line check, cleanup, etc.
Grades will posted weekly. PLEASE set up your online login so that you may monitor your students’ progress.
Status indications are made to help students and parents track missing assignments
Make-up Policy: If a student does not turn in an assignment on time, they have two days to turn in before a
Saturday school is required, unless prior arrangements have been established with the teacher. 10 pints are
deducted per day after 3 days a zero is given. That can only be replaced with the highest score of a 50 by
attending Saturday school and making up the work. Students are urged to make arrangements with me for
makeup tests or quizzes in a timely manner.
Tutoring Times: Students may come in for extra help on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday for help after school, an
appointment is strongly recommended. (Additional tutoring time by appointment only, 7:30- 8 AM, Monday –
Friday.)
Safety
The theatre is a serious place where injury could occur if you are not careful. Think twice before making
decisions relating to power tools, electricity, lighting instruments etc. Carelessness is dangerous and will not be
tolerated.
Rules
I concur with all GHS policies regarding student conduct and behavior. I also ask that while you are in theatre
you respect the following four agreements:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Be your best. You have a right to show your best at all times.
Don’t take things personally. It is really easy to listen and to react to emotional poison but don’t.
Don’t make assumptions. Communicate instead!!
Be impeccable with your word. Your word is the only thing in life that is truly yours. Make sure your
words do not contain poison.
Teacher Information
My name is Tina Nivens. I am a graduate with a BS from Baylor University, 1985. This is my 18th year
teaching; married for 31 years to Todd, the pastor of First Baptist Church, Grapeland. I have a 27 year old
daughter and 25 year old son and one grandchild. It is my goal not only to teach, but also to encourage my
students to grow in all areas of their lives. My prayer is that as students express themselves this year in
theatre, they will, better understand the unique person that they are created to be, gain courage and
confidence, understand the value that they have and the impact they can make in the culture for good.
Contact Information:
The best way to reach me is by email. My email address is [email protected]. Feel free to email
me anytime with any questions or concerns.
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