Theater Workshop Lesson Plan: Improvisation & Structure by Maggie Barkin

Objective

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

By the end of this workshop, students will be able to transform written texts into dynamic, improvised performances. Utilizing techniques from ViewPoints and Viola Spolin's Story Theater, they'll craft performances that engage the body and imagination, creating an authentic connection with the audience.

Essential Question

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

How can we harness the power of improvisation and structure to bring texts to life on stage?

Independent Practice

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

Assign students to select a passage from either 'A Tale of Two Cities' or 'The Great Gatsby' to prepare an improvised performance for the next class.

Remediation & Extension

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

For students needing additional support, offer one-on-one coaching sessions. Challenge advanced students by having them incorporate elements from Sylvia Plath's work into their performances.

Formative Assessment

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

Observe students during practice sessions and provide constructive feedback focused on their use of space, time, and story.

Summative Assessment

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

Students will perform their final improvised piece based on 'The Tempest' for evaluation. Criteria will include creativity, understanding of the text, and engagement with the audience.

Group Reflection

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

Facilitate a group discussion allowing students to share what they learned and the challenges they faced. Encourage peer feedback.

Exit Ticket

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:57 UTC

Ask students to submit a brief reflection on how this workshop has impacted their approach to acting and understanding of improvisation.

Prepare for the Audience

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-04 19:57:58 UTC

Students should refine their improvised performances, incorporating feedback received during the workshop in preparation for the final class presentation to an audience. This culmination will showcase their mastery of the techniques taught.

Change Improvisation

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-05 13:07:02 UTC

Change - speaking without planning

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-05 13:09:46 UTC

How to bring a character to life?

maggierobertsbarkin — 2024-04-05 13:32:28 UTC

Several techniques for finding the character's way of moving