Understanding Set Design

Students will come to an understanding of the importance of historical and stylistic research in set design. They will learn what resources to use as they consider design concepts for their assigned scene. Students will learn how to incorporate research with elemental design processes.

Students will come to an understanding of design elements, the principles of composition, and the effects of color and texture in scenic design. Students will present a picture, object, etc. that portrays the essence of their conceptual design statement.

Students will be able to recognize problems or difficulties in the design process and use appropriate modes of communication with their peers to help solve those problems.

Students will come to an understanding of the purposes of first, second, and third readings of scripts and will be introduced to script analysis techniques.

Students will be able to articulate their design concept through a written work. Students will be given the opportunity to meet and discuss their ideas and concepts of design for their particular scene with other members of the class. From their reading, analysis, and research, they will create a conceptual design statement for their project.

From their thumbnail sketches, students will create a more complete, colorful rendering of their set design. They will include samples of their color palette and any fabrics, textures, or other materials that will be included in their final design.

Considering their analysis, research, and concept statement, students will create a rough, thumbnail sketch of their proposed design.

Students will present their production model to the class. They will discuss their design process and concept in a clear, focused oral presentation.

Although for this unit, students will not be required to create a computer presentation of their set design, it would be interesting and applicable to invite a guest designer to share some of their computer work with the students.

Students will demonstrate the skills necessary to create a production model that is to scale.