How does understanding the origins of storytelling impact your ability to entertain an audience with various forms of entertainment?

In the first unit, students will explore the origins of storytelling while discovering various genres of poetry, prose, and dramatic interpretation. The students will study the performative approach to interpretation by learning about the theatre practitioner, Arthur Lessac. Students will then apply his techniques to their work in poetry, prose and dramatic interpretation. 

In this class, students will explore the different facets of Speech, Debate and Interpretation. Through these units, students will develop a strong foundation and technique for public speaking and communication. Students will be able to apply the skills of speech, debate, negotiation, interpretation and storytelling to authentic and real-life scenarios. 

In Unit 1, students will: 

1. Study the technical process of theatre practitioner, Arthur Lessac. 

2. Develop interpretive skills in poetic, dramatic and narrative works. 

3. Apply these skills to performative tasks for an audience of their peers. 

Within this Communications unit, students will embark on a journey into the realm of dramatic acting, with a particular focus on solo and duo performance styles. In the solo acting component, students will delve into the art of character portrayal by crafting one-actor stories, immersing themselves in the roles of multiple characters within their narratives.

Concurrently, in duo performances, students will collaborate with a scene partner to cultivate their skills in joint acting. The emphasis here lies in the dynamic interplay and connection between themselves and their scene partner.

Throughout the unit's acting cycle, students will undergo formative assessments, which will occur during individual workshops with the teacher and in small group settings with their peers. Upon the conclusion of each performance style, students will undergo summative assessments to evaluate their growth in acting skills and the quality of their performances.

In Unit 2, students will: 

1. Develop acting skills within solo and duo acting. 

2. Apply these skills to performative tasks for an audience of their peers. 

This academic course delves into the domain of Communications, wherein students will acquire the skills necessary for crafting articulate speeches. Emphasis is placed on cultivating a nuanced perspective, ensuring the effective articulation of their voice in the realm of public speaking. The curriculum guides students through the development of proficiency in informative, persuasive, technological, and comedic speech writing.

Throughout this instructional unit, students will engage in a series of formative assessments, strategically integrated into both individualized workshops with the instructor and collaborative small-group settings with peers. These assessments serve as crucial benchmarks for gauging progress and refining skill sets.

At the culmination of each segment dedicated to distinct speaking styles, students will undergo summative assessments designed to comprehensively evaluate their evolution in the art of public speaking. These evaluations encompass a meticulous examination of the quality, coherence, and persuasive efficacy inherent in their delivered speeches.

In Unit 3, students will: 

1. Develop public speaking skills within their projects in speech delivery.

2. Write and develop a perspective and voice in the development of their speeches. 

Advanced Ensemble Acting : 

This course offers a deep exploration into ensemble-based acting, focusing specifically on the intricate dynamics of one-act plays. Students will engage in a comprehensive study of collaborative theatrical performance, delving into character development, scene analysis, and the cohesive dynamics of ensemble acting. Through the examination of the selected one-act play, participants will learn to synthesize individual artistic contributions within the ensemble, cultivating skills in mutual trust, active listening, and responsive adaptation to fellow actors.

The curriculum is designed to foster a collective approach to storytelling, incorporating ensemble-building exercises, improvisational workshops, and collaborative scene work. By actively participating in the rehearsal and performance of a one-act play, students will gain hands-on experience in navigating the challenges and rewards of ensemble-based acting. Formative assessments and constructive feedback sessions will guide students in refining both their individual and collective acting abilities.

The culmination of the course will be a public presentation of their one-act play, showcasing students' proficiency in collaborative performance. This unit provides a nuanced exploration of ensemble-based acting, equipping students with both the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary for success in theatrical endeavors.

In Unit 4, students will: 

1. Ensemble-building exercises: Students will engage in various activities designed to foster a sense of cohesion and trust among ensemble members. These exercises may include group improvisations, team-building games, and other collaborative activities aimed at strengthening the ensemble bond.

2. Rehearsal and performance of the one-act play: Students will actively participate in the rehearsal process for the selected one-act play. This involves scene work, character development, blocking, and refining performances through feedback and practice. The culmination of the unit will be a public presentation of the one-act play, where students will showcase their proficiency in ensemble-based acting.