Playwriting
by Alex Taylor
BIG IDEA:
The power of voice in storytelling
UNIT OBJECTIVE:
Students will demonstrate their understanding of dramatic structure and their ability to use this structure to create an original script by writing a short one-act play.
LEARNING LEVEL:
The Playwriting Unit is to be used in any level theatre class with ninety-minute class periods.
PRIOR STUDENT EXPERIENCE:
It is expected that students will have some basic script analysis knowledge and familiarity with styles of plays, but no experience with actually writing a script.
NATIONAL / STATE STANDARDS:
Utah Standard L1.T.CR.3: Use correct form and structure to create a scene or play with a be-
ginning, middle, and end that includes full character development, believable dialogue, and logical plot outcomes.
Utah Standard L1.T.CR.4: Investigate the collaborative nature of the actor, director, play-
wright, and designers and explore their interdependent roles in a drama/theatre work.
Utah Standard L1.T.P.1: Interpret the character, setting, and essential events in a story or
script that make up the dramatic structure in a drama/theatre work.
Utah Standard L1.T.P.6: Use imagination to inform artistic choices.
Utah Standard L1.T.R.4: Demonstrate the ability to receive and act upon coaching, feedback, and constructive criticism.
National HS Accomplished TH:Cr1.1.II: Use personal experiences and knowledge to develop a character that is believable and authentic in a drama/theatre work.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
What is the purpose of a play? How do playwrights use dialogue, character, and setting to convey meaning and create impact? How does conflict drive the narrative of a play? How does the structure of a play differ from other forms of storytelling? How does the process of playwriting contribute to personal growth and self-expression?
KEY KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
Creativity, storytelling, character development, critical thinking, editing/revision, dramatic structure and imagination.
AUTHENTIC PERFORMANCE TASKS:
Keeping a journal that documents the little assignments that students complete throughout the unit. Used mainly for freewriting.
Creating one minute monologues based off a given prompt.
Creating dialogue for a silent scene.
Taking a test that assesses student’s knowledge of elements of playwriting and dramatic structure.