Drama 1
Course Description
Drama 1 is an elective Visual and Performing Arts course designed to introduce students to the dramatic arts.
The course will increase students’ understanding and appreciation of the performing arts, as well as develop
their creative expression through various hands-on activities and projects. In this course, students will learn
terminology for all aspects of theatre production (stage, acting, directing, and technical) and they will examine
the history of theatre from Ancient Civilizations through the present. Many of the course activities and projects
will be physical in nature, including acting warm-ups, improvisation, monologues, and short scenes. Students
will learn about famous playwrights and will read and analyze scenes and plays. Additionally, students will
write and perform short scenes, research artists in the theatre, participate in Master Classes, and review
performances.
Course Expectations and Standards
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Arrive in the classroom on time with materials needed. Prompt attendance to class is extremely
important, as class begins when the bell rings. In the theatre, on time is considered late
Participate in the lessons and all classroom activities and assignments
Follow Directions. Follow all classroom and school rules and instructions from the teacher. You will
also become familiar with the routine and know what to expect
Complete assignments/projects on time as given; both written and performing.
Work on your performances at home. Have fun with it! Entertain your family. Make it an important
part of your daily routine.
Be Responsible. Keep all scripts, handouts, and all important materials, etc. and have them available
for class. Please have your script with you at all times.
Be Present. Cell phones, iPods, etc. are not permitted during class. If these are taken out they will be
confiscated and may be turned over to administration.
Relax. Learning to act can be difficult at times and some things will take time to learn.
Please contribute to a positive classroom environment (our class expectations)
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Remain seated. Please do not roam around during class time.
Remain in theatre or in assigned rehearsal area. Do not roam elsewhere
NO leaving early. Wait to be dismissed by your director.
No food, drinks, or gum. Water is always fine.
Always try to show respect for all.
If there are any concerns or problems, please bring them to Ms. Rae’s attention. She will help out the
best she can!
Be prepared to work in partners and groups
Mind the “no-no’s” when improvising –
o NO:
 sexual situations,
 drug or alcohol references
 unsafe or unwanted physical contact
 swearing or offensive language
Make-Ups
There are no “understudies” in classroom theatre and performances are a major part of the grade. Students
will have an opportunity to make up a performance if they are absent the day there were scheduled. However,
all students will know their performance date several days in advance. When a student is absent or not
prepared for their performance, it not only affects their grade but the others in their group.
Tardy Policy
Tardiness is not acceptable. It disrupts class, is unfair to students who are on time, reflects negative attitude
toward the instructor, and develops a habit which could make future casting, employment, and academic
success difficult. This course will adhere strictly to the VdL tardy policy as stated in the student handbook.
Method of Evaluation
Students will be graded on the following:
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In-class daily participation in warm-ups, improv games, activities, etc.
Individual ability, progress, and mastery of course content
Formative Assessment
Summative Assessment
All other classroom assignments/tests/finals
Materials
You are required to bring all necessary tools for learning to class each day. These include your script or current
project, a method of organization (binder, section of binder, folder, etc.), a pen or pencil, and a highlighter.
Production Requirement
Each Drama student must participate in a production, at Vista or another theatre. There are several ways to
meet this requirement:
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Attend a play and complete a written review – Students must include a ticket and program of the play,
and will be given a complimentary ticket to Vista’s Fall production.
Perform in a play/musical at Vista, Community theatre, professional theatre, etc. and complete a
written reflection
Work in the “crew” of a production at Vista, Community theatre, professional theatre, etc. and complete
a written reflection
Personal Note: I am very much so looking forward to working with all of you this term and to share with you
my passion for the dramatic arts. I discovered my love of the theatre at a very young age, and have worked with
and in the local theatre community. In this class, you will have the unique opportunity of expressing yourself
in a safe space and to take risks on the stage. I am looking forward to building a supportive and diverse theatre
community with you this term!
Ms. Rae
Email – crae@fcusd.org