Fundamentals of Acting Techniques

Course Number:
TA 141
Transcript Title:
Fundamentals of Acting Techniques
Created:
Aug 16, 2022
Updated:
Jul 17, 2023
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Hours:
40
Lecture / Lab Hours:
0
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
No
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0
Prerequisites

Placement into MTH 65 or MTH 98

Prerequisite/Concurrent 

WR 121 or WR 121Z

Course Description

Introduces basic theatrical techniques. Develops text analysis and performance skills. Develops the beginning level awareness of the physical and vocal skills required of a stage performer. Includes reading and analyzing plays to develop acting skills. Prerequisites: placement into MTH 65 or MTH 98. Prerequisite/concurrent: WR 121 or WR 121Z. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Analyze, deconstruct and reconstruct selected texts in order to prepare for future performance.
  2. Read, perform or view plays of varying cultural backgrounds.
  3. Communicate with self and others in a collaborative manner to achieve mutual goals on schedule to meet deadlines.

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

The determination of assessment strategies is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: writings (journals, self-reflections, pre writing exercises, essays), quizzes, tests, midterm and final exams, group projects, presentations (in person, videos, etc), self-assessments, experimentations, lab reports, peer critiques, responses (to texts, podcasts, videos, films, etc), student generated questions, Escape Room, interviews, and/or portfolios.

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Course Content

Themes

  1. Appropriate use of relaxation and concentration
  2. Analysis of script in preparation of a role
  3. Application of theatre vocabulary
  4. Critical analysis
  5. Team work

Skills

  1. BASIS THEATRE VOCABULARY
    • Master stage directions
    • Evaluate performances with a supportive as well as critical eye
    • Determine basic character goals, obstacles, and tactics
    • Demonstrate basic blocking terminology
  2. SCRIPT/CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
    • Memorize assigned/chosen scenes
    • Develop blocking for scenes
    • Rehearse with partner in preparation for performance
    • Practice cold reading techniques
  3. PERFORMANCES
    • Portray a developed character
    • Use the voice with projection and articulation
    • Display blocking choices consistent with the script
    • Demonstrate the partnership aspects of a scene (give-and-take)
    • Accept criticism and praise
  4. PHYSICAL AND VOCAL WORK
    • Demonstrate a physical and vocal warm-up routine
    • Apply projection and articulation techniques in a scene
    • Determine necessary vigorous physical activity and apply rehearsal techniques
  5. WRITING
    • Write character biographies as assigned
    • Write critical analysis of plays as assigned