Study Design Theatre Studies

Victorian Certificate of Education

20142018

Accreditation period

The images shown above represent a cross section of works covering sculpture, textiles, assemblage, drawing, photography, prints, painting and electronic media as exhibited in VCE Top Arts.

COVER ARTWORK WAS SELECTED FROM THE TOP ARTS EXHIBITION. COPYRIGHT REMAINS THE PROPERTY OF THE ARTIST.

Latoya BARTON The sunset (detail) from a series of twenty-four 9.0 x 9.0 cm each, oil on board

Tarkan ERTURK Visage (detail) 201.0 x 170.0 cm synthetic polymer paint, on cotton duck

Liana RASCHILLA Teapot from the Crazy Alice set 19.0 x 22.0 x 22.0 cm earthenware, clear glaze. lustres

Nigel BROWN Untitled physics (detail) 90.0 x 440.0 x 70.0 cm composition board, steel, loudspeakers, CD player, amplifier, glass Chris ELLIS Tranquility (detail) 35.0 x 22.5 cm gelatin silver photograph

Kate WOOLLEY Sarah (detail) 76.0 x 101.5 cm, oil on canvas

Christian HART Within without (detail) digital film, 6 minutes

Kristian LUCAS Me, myself, I and you (detail) 56.0 x 102.0 cm oil on canvas

Merryn ALLEN Japanese illusions (detail) centre back: 74.0 cm, waist (flat): 42.0 cm polyester cotton

Ping (Irene VINCENT) Boxes (detail) colour photograph

James ATKINS Light cascades (detail) three works, 32.0 x 32.0 x 5.0 cm each glass, flourescent light, metal

Tim JOINER 14 seconds (detail) digital film, 1.30 minutes

Lucy McNAMARA Precariously (detail) 156.0 x 61.0 x 61.0 cm painted wood, oil paint, egg shells, glue, stainless steel wire

Accredited by the Victorian Registration and Qualications Authority Level 4, 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Developed and published by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Level 1, 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 This revised and accredited edition published 2013 Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority 2013 No part of this publication may be reproduced except as specied under the Copyright Act 1968 or by permission from the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. For more information go to: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/ aboutus/policies/policy-copyright.aspx The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority provides the only ofcial, up-to-date versions of Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publications. Details of updates can be found on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au This publication may contain copyright material belonging to a third party. Every effort has been made to contact all copyright owners. If you believe that material in this publication is an infringement of your copyright please email the Copyright Ofcer: vcaa.copyright@edumail.vic.gov.au Copyright in materials appearing at any sites linked to this document rests with the copyright owner/s of these materials, subject to the Copyright Act. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority recommends you refer to copyright statements at linked sites before using such materials. Edited by Ruth Learner Cover designed by Chris Waldron of BrandHouse Desktop published by Julie Coleman VCE Theatre Studies Study Design ISBN 978-1-922082-25-1

Contents
4 Important information

5 Introduction
Scope of study Rationale 6 Aims Structure Entry Duration 7 Changes to the study design Monitoring for quality Safety and wellbeing Employability skills Legislative compliance

Assessment and reporting

Satisfactory completion Authentication Levels of achievement

10 11

Terms used in this study Unit 1: Pre-modern theatre

Areas of study and Outcomes 13 Assessment

15

Unit 2: Modern theatre

Areas of study and Outcomes 17 Assessment

19

Unit 3: Playscript interpretation

Areas of study and Outcomes 22 Assessment

24

Unit 4: Performance interpretation

Areas of study and Outcomes 28 Assessment

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Accreditation period Units 14: 1 January 2014 31 December 2018 Implementation of this study commences in 2014. Other sources of information The VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET is the only official source of changes to regulations and accredited studies. The Bulletin also regularly includes advice on VCE studies. It is the responsibility of each VCE teacher to refer to each issue of the Bulletin. The Bulletin is available as an e-newsletter via free subscription on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authoritys website at: www.vcaa. vic.edu.au

To assist teachers in assessing School-assessed Coursework in Units 3 and 4, the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publishes online an assessment handbook that includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment. The companion document to the assessment handbook Administrative Procedures for Assessment in VCE Studies is available on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authoritys website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/vce/generaladvice/index.aspx The current VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook contains essential information on assessment processes and other procedures.
VCE providers Throughout this study design the term school is intended to include both schools and other VCE providers. Copyright VCE schools may reproduce parts of this study design for use by teachers. The full Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Copyright Policy is available at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/aboutus/ policies/policy-copyright.aspx

Introduction

Scope of StuDY

In VCE Theatre Studies students interpret playscripts and produce theatre for audiences. Through practical and theoretical engagement with playscripts from the pre-modern era to the present day, students gain an insight into the history and rich possibilities of playscript-based theatrical production and develop understanding and appreciation of the role and place of the practitioner in theatre. Theatre practitioners develop, create and craft productions through research, contextualisation, visualisation and the application of stagecraft. The study covers roles in theatre practice including actor, director, designer, theatre technologist and theatre administrator/manager. Throughout the study, students work with playscripts in both their written form and in performance, studying various areas of stagecraft that can be used to interpret these playscripts. Students study the contexts, that is, the time, places and cultures, of playscripts, as well as their language and theatrical possibilities. They explore ways that meaning can be constructed and conveyed through theatrical performance. They consider the audiences who will engage with their productions and incorporate knowledge and understanding of audience culture, demographic and sensibilities in their interpretations. Students apply stagecraft to collaboratively and individually interpret playscripts and their theatrical possibilities. Through study of playscripts, contribution to the production of plays, and the application of stagecraft, students develop knowledge and understanding of theatre and its practices.

RationaLe

Theatre has been made and performed from the earliest times and is an integral part of all cultures. Theatre exists as entertainment, education, an agent for change, a representation of values and a window on society. Theatre makers have worked as playwrights, actors, directors, researchers, designers, technicians, managers and administrators to produce theatre for a range of audiences and diverse purposes. Theatrical practices has developed, and influenced culture more generally, over centuries and through the variety of productions in a range of spaces and venues.

Introduction THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

VCE Theatre Studies develops, refines and enhances students analytical, evaluative and critical thinking, and their expression, and problem-solving and design skills. Through study and practice in theatrical analysis, playscript interpretation and engagement in theatrical production processes, students develop their aesthetic sensitivity, interpretive skills, and communication, design, technological and management knowledge. The study of theatre, in all its various forms, is relevant to students who wish to pursue further study in theatrical production, theatre history, communication, writing and acting at tertiary level or through vocational educational training settings or to pursue industry or community related pathways.

AimS

This study enables students to: acquire knowledge of theatre, including its styles, traditions, purposes and audiences interpret playscripts through engagement in the production process creatively and imaginatively explore and experiment with theatrical possibilities develop and apply stagecraft knowledge and skills to interpret playscripts develop an understanding of themselves as theatre makers and practitioners develop an appreciation of theatre and its significance as an art form apply skills of theatrical analysis and evaluation to their own production work and that of others participate in the theatrical life of their community.
Structure

The study is made up of four units: Unit 1: Pre-modern theatre Unit 2: Modern theatre Unit 3: Playscript interpretation Unit 4: Performance interpretation Each unit deals with specific content contained in areas of study and is designed to enable students to achieve a set of outcomes for that unit. Each outcome is described in terms of key knowledge and key skills. A list of terms used across Units 1 to 4 is included on page 10.

EntrY

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to undertaking Unit 4. Units 1 to 4 are designed to a standard equivalent to the final two years of secondary education. All VCE studies are benchmarked against comparable national and international curriculum.

Duration

Each unit involves at least 50 hours of scheduled classroom instruction over the duration of a semester.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Introduction

CHanGeS to tHe StuDY DeSiGn

During its period of accreditation minor changes to the study will be announced in the VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET. The Bulletin is the only source of changes to regulations and accredited studies. It is the responsibility of each VCE teacher to monitor changes or advice about VCE studies published in the Bulletin.

MONITORING FOR QuaLitY

As part of ongoing monitoring and quality assurance, the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will periodically undertake an audit of VCE Theatre Studies to ensure the study is being taught and assessed as accredited. The details of the audit procedures and requirements are published annually in the VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook. Schools will be notified if they are required to submit material to be audited.

SafetY anD WeLLBeinG

It is the responsibility of the school to ensure that duty of care is exercised in relation to the health and safety of all students undertaking Theatre Studies. In this study students may be involved in the handling of potentially hazardous equipment and the use of chemicals, for example adhesives, solvents and paints used when working in set or costume design. Some lifting and movement of heavy objects may be required within this study and students should be instructed on the appropriate ways of lifting and moving these objects. Students and teachers must be aware of acceptable levels of sound, particularly when using amplifiers and PA systems. Equipment should be tested and tagged to comply with safety regulations. Regulations must be followed regarding persons working two metres or more above the ground. For activities that take place in a performance space, all people who access the space during the activity must be made aware of relevant safety and evacuation procedures. The Victorian WorkCover Authority website www.workcover.vic.gov.au/ updates relevant occupational health and safety regulations on a regular basis. Relevant information is also provided on the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development website www.education.vic.gov.au/hr/ohs/.

EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS

This study offers a number of opportunities for students to develop employability skills. The Advice for teachers companion document provides specific examples of how students can develop employability skills during learning activities and assessment tasks.

LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE

When collecting and using information, the provisions of privacy and copyright legislation, such as the Victorian Information Privacy Act 2000 and Health Records Act 2001, and the federal Privacy Act 1988 and Copyright Act 1968, must be met.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

Assessment and reporting

SATISFACTORY COMPLETION

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teachers assessment of the students performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit. Designated assessment tasks are provided in the details for each unit. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publishes online an assessment handbook that includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment for Units 3 and 4. Teachers must develop courses that provide opportunities for students to demonstrate achievement of outcomes. Examples of learning activities are provided in the Advice for teachers companion document. Schools will report a result for each unit to the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority as S (Satisfactory) or N (Not Satisfactory). Completion of a unit will be reported on the Statement of Results issued by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority as S (Satisfactory) or N (Not Satisfactory). Schools may report additional information on levels of achievement.

AutHentication

Work related to the outcomes of each unit will be accepted only if the teacher can attest that, to the best of their knowledge, all unacknowledged work is the students own. Teachers need to refer to the current VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook for authentication procedures.

LEVELS OF ACHIEVEMENT

Units 1 and 2 Procedures for the assessment of levels of achievement in Units 1 and 2 are a matter for school decision. Assessment of levels of achievement for these units will not be reported to the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Schools may choose to report levels of achievement using grades, descriptive statements or other indicators.

THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Assessment and reporting

Units 3 and 4 The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will supervise the assessment of all students undertaking Units 3 and 4.

In VCE Theatre Studies the students level of achievement will be determined by School-assessed Coursework and an end-of-year examination. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will report students level of performance on each assessment component as a grade from A+ to E or UG (ungraded). To receive a study score, students must achieve two or more graded assessments and receive S for both Units 3 and 4. The study score is reported on a scale of 050; it is a measure of how well the student performed in relation to all others who took the study. Teachers should refer to the current VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook for details on graded assessment and calculation of the study score. Percentage contributions to the study score in VCE Theatre Studies are as follows: Units 3 and 4 School-assessed Coursework: 45 per cent End-of-year Stagecraft examination: 25 per cent End-of-year written examination: 30 per cent. Details of the assessment program are described in the sections on Units 3 and 4 in this study design.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

Terms used in this study

For the purposes of this study design and associated assessment the following definitions will apply.

PLAYSCRIPT

A written play text that may be a whole play or excerpts from a play.

STAGECRAFT

Stagecraft is the term used to describe areas of production. There are many areas of stagecraft; however, for the purposes of this study they are: Acting Design: costume, make-up, properties, set and sound Design: lighting Direction Theatre technologies Production management: publicity, marketing and stage management.

THEATRICAL proDuction proceSS

For the purposes of this study the production process is described as having three distinct but interrelated stages. The stages of this process are planning, development and presentation.

THEATRICAL STYLES

Theatrical styles are the practices and traditions of theatre which have come to be accepted as conventional and are particular to specific times, places, peoples and cultures. By their very nature, theatrical styles are not static, constant or definitive but are indicative, for example a theatrical style might indicate a historical period or political movement. In modern theatre it is understood that theatrical styles are fluid and experimental and evolve in response to a range of contexts and purposes.

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Unit 1: Pre-modern theatre

This unit focuses on the application of acting and other stagecraft in relation to theatrical styles of the pre-modern era. Students work with playscripts from the pre-modern era of theatre, focusing on works created up to 1920 in both their written form and in performance. They also study theatrical and performance analysis and apply these skills to the analysis of a play in performance. Periods from the pre-modern era of theatre include Ancient Greek, Roman, Liturgical drama such as morality/miracle/mystery plays, Italian and the Commedia DellArte, Elizabethan and Shakespearean, Restoration comedies and dramas, Neo-classical, Spanish and French, Naturalism/Realism, and non-Western theatre such as Beijing Opera, Noh theatre, Bunraku and Kabuki and other traditional indigenous theatre forms.

Area of StuDY 1

Pre-modern theatre In this area of study students explore playscripts from the pre-modern era of theatre, that is, works prior to the 1920s. Students study playscripts from at least three distinct theatrical periods. They learn about contexts, cultural origins, theatrical styles, use of stagecraft and performance possibilities for each of the selected playscripts. Through practical workshops students gain knowledge of how these periods have shaped and contributed to the world of pre-modern theatre. Outcome 1 On completion of this unit the student should be able to identify and describe the distinguishing features of pre-modern theatre playscripts.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 1.
Key knowledge characteristics and features of three or more pre-modern theatre periods approaches to interpreting text in playscripts from the pre-modern era theatre contexts from the pre-modern era use and application of theatrical styles, acting skills and stagecraft to shape performances of playscripts from the pre-modern era

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Unit 1 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

approaches to creating and manipulating actoraudience relationships in the performance of playscripts from the pre-modern era theatre terminology and expressions.
Key skills describe characteristics of theatre from the pre-modern era research texts and contexts of playscripts demonstrate knowledge of theatrical styles describe actoraudience relationship research and apply stagecraft other than acting to interpret playscripts use theatre terminology and expressions appropriately.

AREA OF STUDY 2

Interpreting playscripts This area of study focuses on the presentation of playscripts from the pre-modern era of theatre. Students apply acting and other stagecraft to interpret playscripts from at least three distinct theatrical periods from the pre-modern era. Students learn how acting and other stagecraft can be informed by different theatrical styles and contexts. They also learn about processes of developing character, the effect the audience has on acting and the use of acting skills to enhance text interpretation. Through rehearsals and performance students gain knowledge of how these playscripts can be interpreted. Outcome 2 On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply acting and other stagecraft to interpret playscripts from the pre-modern era.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 2.
Key knowledge the interpreting of playscripts from three or more theatre periods of the pre-modern era contexts of playscripts from the pre-modern era theatrical styles from the pre-modern era the role of the audience in the pre-modern era acting techniques and stagecraft from a range of theatre from the pre-modern era, including ways of creating character, use of expressive skills, and use of compositional skills. Key skills interpret playscripts from the pre-modern era convey the contexts of playscripts from the pre-modern era apply appropriate theatrical styles when presenting playscripts from the pre-modern era perform playscripts from the pre-modern era develop and sustain character apply expressive skills through acting and other stagecraft apply compositional skills through acting and other stagecraft employ a range of acting and stagecraft techniques.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN

THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 1

AREA OF STUDY 3

Analysing a play in performance This area of study focuses on an analysis of a professional performance of a playscript. Students explore the nature of theatrical analysis including theatrical styles, audience perspective, acting skills, use of other stagecraft and the ways in which the contexts of a playscript have been interpreted through performance. Where possible, for this outcome, students should analyse a pre-modern play in performance. Outcome 3 On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse a performance of a playscript.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 3.
Key knowledge the nature of theatrical and performance analysis the ways in which an audience constructs meaning from a theatrical performance how theatrical interpretations are informed by the contexts of the playscript theatrical styles used to shape a performance acting techniques applied to a play in performance establishment and maintenance of actoraudience relationship the use of stagecraft to support and enhance acting theatre terminology and expressions. Key skills analyse a theatrical performance describe the ways in which meaning is constructed by an audience describe the ways in which the performance is informed by the contexts of the playscript explain the application of theatrical styles in a performance analyse the use of acting in a performance use theatre terminology and expressions appropriately.

ASSESSMENT

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teachers assessment of the students overall performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit. The key knowledge and key skills listed for each outcome should be used for course design and the development of learning activities. The key knowledge and key skills do not constitute a checklist and such an approach is not necessary or desirable for determining the achievement of outcomes. Assessment tasks must be a part of the regular teaching and learning program and must not unduly add to the workload associated with that program. They must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. Teachers should select a variety of assessment tasks for their assessment program to reflect the key knowledge and key skills being assessed and to provide for different learning styles. For this unit students are required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 1 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

outcomes encompass all areas of study. Demonstration of achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 must be based on the students performance on a selection of assessment tasks. Where teachers allow students to choose between tasks they must ensure that the tasks they set are of comparable scope and demand. Assessment tasks for this unit are selected from the following: performance of playscripts from the pre-modern era oral/visual/multimedia reports/presentations tests responses to structured questions research report. At least one assessment task must be performance-based and at least one task must be written.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN

Unit 2: Modern theatre

In this unit students study theatrical styles and stagecraft through working with playscripts in both their written form and in performance with an emphasis on the application of stagecraft. Students work with playscripts from the modern era, focusing on works from the 1920s to the present. They study theatrical analysis and production evaluation and apply these skills to the analysis of a play in performance. Theatrical movements in the modern era include Epic Theatre, Constructivist theatre, Theatre of the Absurd, Political theatre, Feminist theatre, Expressionism, Eclectic theatre (contemporary theatre that incorporates a range of theatrical styles), Physical theatre, Verbatim theatre, Theatre in Education.

Area of StuDY 1

Modern theatre This area of study focuses on an exploration of playscripts from the modern era of theatre, that is, works from the 1920s to the present. Students study at least three distinct theatrical movements from this era and playscripts associated with each movement. Students learn about the contexts, origins, theatrical styles, production processes, use of stagecraft and performance possibilities of each playscript. Through practical workshops involving the application of stagecraft, students gain knowledge of how each movement has shaped and contributed to the world of modern theatre. Outcome 1 On completion of this unit the student should be able to identify and describe the distinguishing features of modern era theatre playscripts.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 1.
Key knowledge three or more theatrical movements from the modern era origins of playscripts from the modern era contexts of playscripts from the modern era theatrical styles of playscripts from the modern era production processes of playscripts from the modern era text interpretation through the use of stagecraft previous interpretations of the playscript.

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Unit 2 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Key skills describe the factors that influenced the development of the theatre movement understand contexts of playscripts investigate uses of theatrical styles demonstrate knowledge of production processes research uses of stagecraft research the impact of stagecraft on audiences.

AREA OF STUDY 2

Interpretation through stagecraft In this area of study students apply stagecraft to realise playscripts from at least three distinct theatrical movements from the modern era. They also learn how stagecraft is informed by and contributes to the development of different theatrical styles, and consider ways the application of stagecraft is itself shaped by the contexts of the playscripts. Through working collaboratively, students gain an understanding of how stagecraft is applied in a production process to interpret playscripts. Outcome 2 On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply stagecraft to interpret playscripts from the modern era.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 2.
Key knowledge the interpreting of playscripts from three or more theatrical movements of the modern era contexts of playscripts from the modern era theatrical styles from the modern era production processes the collaborative nature of theatre production processes for designing, developing and applying stagecraft ways of documenting ideas that inform interpretation of the playscript. Key skills develop interpretations of playscripts from the modern era convey the contexts of playscripts from the modern era apply appropriate theatrical styles when presenting playscripts from the modern era apply production processes work collaboratively apply stagecraft document ideas that have contributed to the development of the interpretation.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN

THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 2

AREA OF STUDY 3

Analysing a play in performance This area of study focuses on an analysis and evaluation of a professional performance of a playscript. Students explore the nature of theatrical analysis and production evaluation, including the application of stagecraft and its effect on an audience. Where possible, for this outcome, students should analyse a modern play in performance. Outcome 3 On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and evaluate stagecraft in a performance of a playscript.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 3.
Key knowledge the nature of theatrical analysis and production evaluation how application of stagecraft enables an audience to construct meaning from a performance the way in which stagecraft is applied the ways in which theatrical styles are interpreted by stagecraft how the application of stagecraft is informed by the contexts of the playscript. Key skills analyse and evaluate a theatrical performance analyse application of stagecraft evaluate the ways in which stagecraft enables an audience to construct meaning analyse ways in which stagecraft is used to interpret theatrical styles analyse connections between contexts of the playscript and the use of stagecraft.

aSSeSSment

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teachers assessment of the students overall performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit. The key knowledge and key skills listed for each outcome should be used for course design and the development of learning activities. The key knowledge and key skills do not constitute a checklist and such an approach is not necessary or desirable for determining the achievement of outcomes. Assessment tasks must be a part of the regular teaching and learning program and must not unduly add to the workload associated with that program. They must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. Teachers should select a variety of assessment tasks for their assessment program to reflect the key knowledge and key skills being assessed and to provide for different learning styles. For this unit students are required to demonstrate achievement of three outcomes. As a set these outcomes encompass all areas of study. Demonstration of achievement of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 must be based on the students performance on a selection of assessment tasks. Where teachers allow students to choose between tasks they must ensure that the tasks they set are of comparable scope and demand.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 2 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Assessment tasks for this unit are selected from the following: performance of playscripts from the modern era oral/visual/multimedia reports/presentations tests responses to structured questions research report. At least one assessment task must be performance-based and at least one task must be written.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN

Unit 3: Playscript interpretation

In this unit students develop an interpretation of a playscript through the stages of the theatrical production process: planning, development and presentation. Students specialise in two areas of stagecraft, working collaboratively in order to realise the production of a playscript. They use knowledge they develop from this experience to analyse the ways stagecraft can be used to interpret previously unseen playscript excerpts. Students also attend a performance selected from the prescribed VCE Theatre Studies Unit 3 Playlist published annually in the VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET, and analyse and evaluate the interpretation of the playscript in the performance.
Stagecraft For Outcome 1 students select two areas of stagecraft with at least one from List A.

List A Acting Direction Design any of costume, make-up, properties, set, sound. List B Publicity and marketing Lighting Theatre technologies Stage management Production management.
Production team For Outcome 1 students form a production team to collaboratively interpret a playscript for performance to an audience. More than one student may specialise in each area of stagecraft, and schools may decide to focus only on specific areas of stagecraft. These decisions will be influenced by the playscript selected for interpretation and/or the size of the class. Playscripts Schools will select a playscript for interpretation in a production to an audience and excerpt/s from a different playscripts for analysis in Outcome 2. Students must study the playscript for the production they attend and analyse for Outcome 3. The production for Outcome 3 must be selected from the VCE Theatre Studies Unit 3 Playlist published annually by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

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Unit 3 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Area of StuDY 1

Production process This area of study focuses on the development of skills that contribute to the interpretation of a playscript. Students work collaboratively to contribute to the development of a production. As a member of the production team, students undertake exercises and tasks throughout the stages of the production process leading to the development of a playscript.

Students develop an understanding of, and enhance skills in applying, two areas of stagecraft across all stages of the production process. They also develop other skills that contribute to the theatre production process, for example, thinking imaginatively and creatively, working collaboratively, time management, planning and scheduling.
Outcome 1 On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply stagecraft to interpret a playscript for performance to an audience.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 1.
Key knowledge the nature and purpose of the three stages of the production process in the development of an imaginative interpretation of a playscript contributions of individuals working in collaboration with others as part of the production team to interpret a playscript throughout the stages of the production process: production planning including developing initial concepts for the production production development including exploring and trialling approaches to achieving production aims presentation including involvement in bump-in, technical/dress rehearsals, performances, bump-out and evaluation techniques used in two areas of stagecraft as part of a production process, culminating in the performance of a playscript to an audience strategies for documenting and reflecting on the production process theatre terminology and expressions. Key skills demonstrate an understanding of the stages of a production process contribute effectively to the development of an imaginative interpretation of a playscript through involvement in each stage of the production process, culminating in a performance to an audience demonstrate understanding of the ways stagecraft can be applied to interpret a playscript in performance apply two areas of stagecraft to contribute to the development and presentation of a production to an audience contribute effectively to two areas of stagecraft in collaboration with the production team throughout all stages of production use theatre terminology and expression appropriately.

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THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 3

AREA OF STUDY 2

Theatrical interpretation In this area of study students explore how stagecraft can be applied across the stages of the production process to interpret the theatrical possibilities of excerpts from a playscript. Students interpret previously unseen playscript excerpts and other stimulus material, formulating and justifying possible theatrical responses and documenting their interpretation. The documentation should include written material and annotated illustrations, as appropriate, to support interpretive choices. Outcome 2 On completion of this unit the student should be able to document an interpretation of excerpts from a playscript and explain how stagecraft can be applied in the interpretation.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 2.
Key knowledge theatrical and production possibilities of excerpts from a playscript the language of the playscript excerpts, including their nature, purpose and effect ways in which meaning can be constructed in theatrical performance through the application of stagecraft theatre terminology and expressions. Key skills describe ways in which stagecraft can be used imaginatively to interpret excerpts from a playscript justify how the interpretation could be realised through the application of stagecraft document an interpretation of the excerpts use theatre terminology and expression appropriately.

AREA OF STUDY 3

Production analysis In this area of study students analyse and evaluate an interpretation of a playscript in a production from the prescribed VCE Theatre Studies Unit 3 Playlist.

Students analyse and evaluate the relationship between the written playscript and its interpretation on stage. In doing so students study ways the interpretation on stage draws on and changes the context in the playscript. This includes the decisions that have been made when interpreting the playscript, for example decisions about design, direction and acting. Students also evaluate ways individuals, for example, the director, the lighting designer or the stage manager, have contributed to the performance through the application of stagecraft. Students study how the theatrical styles implied in the written playscript are interpreted when the play is performed to an audience. Student analysis and evaluation of the production is informed by work undertaken in Areas of Study 1 and 2 on interpreting the text of a playscript for development into a performance. Students develop an understanding of the terminology and expressions associated with analysing theatrical productions.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 3 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Outcome 3 On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and evaluate the interpretation of a written playscript in production to an audience.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 3.
Key knowledge the contexts of the interpretation of a written playscript decisions taken that were evident in the production to interpret the written playscript for performance the application of acting and other stagecraft to develop the written playscript for performance theatrical styles in the written playscript and in the play in performance terminology and expressions used to describe, analyse and evaluate a theatrical production. Key skills analyse ways in which the contexts of a written playscript were interpreted through performance to an audience evaluate the interpretation of the written playscript for performance analyse and evaluate the application of acting and other stagecraft to develop the written playscript for performance discuss similarities and differences of theatrical styles between the playscript and the play in performance use appropriate theatrical terminology and expressions.

ASSeSSment

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teachers assessment of the students overall performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publishes online an assessment handbook for this study that includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment. The key knowledge and key skills listed for each outcome should be used for course design and the development of learning activities. The key knowledge and key skills do not constitute a checklist and such an approach is not necessary or desirable for determining the achievement of outcomes.
Assessment of levels of achievement The students level of achievement in Unit 3 will be determined by School-assessed Coursework and an end-of-year written examination. Contribution to final assessment School-assessed Coursework for Unit 3 will contribute 30 per cent.

The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year stagecraft examination, which will contribute 25 per cent, and an end-of-year written examination, which will contribute 30 per cent.

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THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 3

School-assessed Coursework Teachers will provide to the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority a score representing an assessment of the students level of achievement.

The score must be based on the teachers rating of performance of each student on the tasks set out in the following table and in accordance with the assessment handbook published online by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. The assessment handbook also includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment. Assessment tasks must be a part of the regular teaching and learning program and must not unduly add to the workload associated with that program. They must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. Where teachers provide a range of options for the same assessment task, they should ensure that the options are of comparable scope and demand. Teachers should select a variety of assessment tasks for their program to reflect the key knowledge and key skills being assessed and to provide for different learning styles.
Outcomes
Outcome 1 Apply stagecraft to interpret a playscript for performance to an audience.

Marks allocated*

Assessment tasks
Practical application of two areas of stagecraft across all stages of the production process, and demonstration of understanding of how selected stagecraft can be effectively applied to interpret a playscript in performance to an audience. Documentation that describes how stagecraft can be utilised to interpret previously unseen excerpt from a playscript. The documentation may be in one or a combination of the following formats: a written report structured questions a multimedia report. An analysis and evaluation of an interpretation of a prescribed playscript in any one or a combination of the following formats: a written report an analytical essay structured questions.

60

Outcome 2 Document an interpretation of excerpts from a playscript and explain how stagecraft can be applied in the interpretation.

15

Outcome 3 Analyse and evaluate the interpretation of a written playscript in production to an audience.

25

Total marks

100
*School-assessed Coursework for Unit 3 contributes 30 per cent.

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Unit 4: Performance interpretation

In this unit students study a scene and associated monologue from the Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications published annually by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, and develop a theatrical treatment that includes the creation of a character by an actor, stagecraft possibilities, and appropriate research. Students interpret a monologue from within a specified scene using selected areas of stagecraft to realise their interpretation. Students work for Outcomes 1 and 2 is supported through analysis of a performance they attend selected from the prescribed VCE Theatre Studies Unit 4 Playlist published annually in the VCAA Bulletin VCE, VCAL and VET.
Monologue selection For Outcomes 1 and 2 students must select a playscript, scene and monologue from the Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications published annually by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. The list will consist of a set of prescribed play titles, a specified scene from each play and a selected monologue from that scene. Students select one scene from one prescribed play and analyse and evaluate its content and use selected stagecraft to present an interpretation of the monologue. Scene In this unit, the term scene refers to a designated segment/s of a playscript selected from the Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications. Stagecraft In Unit 4, Outcomes 1 and 2, stagecraft includes:

Acting and direction OR Design any two of make-up, costume, set pieces, properties, sound. In Unit 4, Outcome 3, students analyse acting, direction and design, and any of, as appropriate to the production, make-up, costume, set/set pieces, properties, sound and lighting.

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THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 4

Area of StuDY 1

Monologue interpretation This area of study focuses on the interpretation of a monologue from a playscript selected from the monologue list in the Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications.

Students select a monologue from the list and study the text of the monologue, the prescribed scene and the playscript from which the scene is derived. Students apply selected stagecraft from the list for Unit 4 to interpret the monologue. The interpretation of the monologue is informed by study of the prescribed scene and the complete playscript. Students make decisions about the contexts, theatrical styles and theatrical possibilities for interpreting the monologue. Students apply their selected areas of stagecraft to realise and present their interpretation of the monologue. They also consider relationships between acting, direction and design.
Outcome 1 On completion of this unit the student should be able to interpret a monologue from a playscript and justify their interpretive decisions.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 1.
Key knowledge the text of the monologue, the scene in which it is embedded and the playscript from which the scene is derived the contexts of the monologue, scene and playscript, including the original possibilities for interpretation of the playscript intended meanings of the monologue, scene and playscript the theatrical styles of the monologue, prescribed scene and playscript the ways the contexts and the development of the theatrical work are interconnected the influences on theatrical presentations to an audience the ways selected stagecraft can be applied to interpret a monologue in performance theatre terminology and expressions. Key skills conduct research and apply discoveries to make informed decisions in an interpretation of a playscript interpret the contexts of the monologue convey intended meanings of the monologue apply theatrical styles to the monologue interpret the monologue by applying selected stagecraft present an interpretation of the monologue use theatre terminology and expressions appropriately.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 4 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

AREA OF STUDY 2

Scene interpretation In this area of study students develop a theatrical treatment that outlines an interpretation of a monologue and a prescribed scene. Students outline an interpretation of the scene, focusing on the ways in which the scene could be approached as a piece of theatre, including its place within the playscript, its specific structure, its characters, its themes, images and ideas, its theatrical possibilities, its theatrical styles and the ways in which their selected stagecraft could be employed to convey its intended meanings. Students also study the scene in relation to the contexts of the playscript and influences on the playwright. In their theatrical treatment, they also demonstrate an understanding of the application of their selected stagecraft for a performance to an audience. They conduct and evaluate research as the basis for decisions that will inform their interpretation. Outcome 2 On completion of this unit the student should be able to develop a theatrical treatment that presents an interpretation of a monologue and its prescribed scene.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 2.
Key knowledge contexts of the period in which the playscript is set contexts of the period in which the playscript was conceived influences on the playwright/s the place of the scene within the playscript ways in which themes, images and ideas can be conveyed within a scene the structure and plot of, and the character/s in, the playscript the ways theatrical styles can be applied the theatrical possibilities including ways in which the playscript may be interpreted as a piece of theatre for an audience the ways stagecraft can be applied to communicate meaning theatrical language, terminology and expression. Key skills research the contextual background of the selected playscript apply research to develop an interpretation of a monologue and its specified scene apply stagecraft apply theatrical styles make decisions to enhance interpretation outline theatrical possibilities convey intended meanings of a monologue and its specified scene use theatre terminology and expression appropriately.

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THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 4

AREA OF STUDY 3

Performance analysis In this area of study students focus on the analysis and evaluation of the acting and design in a production selected from the prescribed VCE Theatre Studies Unit 4 Playlist.

Students attend a production selected from the Unit 4 Playlist. They analyse and evaluate how actor/s interpret the playscript in the performance and the relationship between acting, direction and design. In doing so students study the character/s in the play and how the actor/s interpreted them on stage. Students develop an understanding of the expressive skills used by the actor/s to portray the character/s, including facial expression, voice, gesture, movement, stillness and silence. Students also develop an understanding of other aspects of acting and direction, including focus, the use of the acting space, the use of verbal and non-verbal language to convey the intended meanings of the play, the use of stagecraft by the actor/s in the production, and the establishment and maintenance of the actoraudience relationship. Students understanding of the techniques being used by the actor/s is informed by techniques they use to perform the monologue they selected for Outcome 1. Students study the interrelationships between the acting and the theatrical style/s utilised in the production. They refine their understanding of the terminology and expressions associated with analysing theatrical productions.
Outcome 3 On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and evaluate acting in a production.

To achieve this outcome the student will draw on key knowledge and key skills outlined in Area of Study 3.
Key knowledge the character/s in the production including status, motivation and characteristics interpretation by actor/s of a playscript in performance expressive skills including facial expression, voice, gesture, movement, stillness and silence used by the actor/s to realise character/s the use of focus and the acting space the use of language to convey the intended meanings of the play the interrelationships between acting, direction and design the establishment and maintenance of the actoraudience relationship the interrelationships between acting and theatrical style/s utilised in the production understanding of theatrical terminology and expressions to analyse and evaluate a theatrical production. Key skills analyse the character/s in the production including status, motivation and characteristics analyse and evaluate interpretation by actor/s of a playscript in performance, including the acting skills used by actor/s to realise character/s, the use of focus and the acting space and the interrelationships between acting, direction and design analyse the use of language to convey the intended meanings of the play analyse and evaluate the establishment and maintenance of the actoraudience relationship analyse the ways that actor/s work within the theatrical style/s utilised in the production use theatre terminology and expression appropriately.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 4 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

aSSeSSment

The award of satisfactory completion for a unit is based on a decision that the student has demonstrated achievement of the set of outcomes specified for the unit. This decision will be based on the teachers assessment of the students overall performance on assessment tasks designated for the unit. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publishes online an assessment handbook for this study that includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment. The key knowledge and key skills listed for each outcome should be used for course design and the development of learning activities. The key knowledge and key skills do not constitute a checklist and such an approach is not necessary or desirable for determining the achievement of outcomes. To demonstrate satisfactory completion of Unit 4, Outcome 1, students must perform an interpretation of a monologue selected from the current Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications.
Assessment of levels of achievement The students level of achievement for Unit 4 will be determined by School-assessed Coursework and an end-of-year examination. Contribution to final assessment School-assessed Coursework for Unit 4 will contribute 15 per cent.

The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year Stagecraft examination, which will contribute 25 per cent, and an end-of-year written examination, which will contribute 30 per cent.
School-assessed Coursework Teachers will provide to the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority a score representing an assessment of the students level of achievement.

The score must be based on the teachers rating of performance of each student on the tasks set out in the following table and in accordance with the assessment handbook published online by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. The assessment handbook also includes advice on the assessment tasks and performance descriptors for assessment. Assessment tasks must be a part of the regular teaching and learning program and must not unduly add to the workload associated with that program. They must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. Where teachers provide a range of options for the same assessment task, they should ensure that the options are of comparable scope and demand. Teachers should select a variety of assessment tasks for their program to reflect the key knowledge and key skills being assessed and to provide for different learning styles.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN

THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

Unit 4

Outcomes
Outcome 2 Develop a theatrical treatment that presents an interpretation of a monologue and its prescribed scene.

Marks allocated*

Assessment tasks
A theatrical treatment that outlines an interpretation of a monologue from a prescribed scene. The treatment may be in any one or a combination of the following formats: a written report short responses structured questions. An analysis and evaluation of acting and its interrelationships to direction and design in a production from the prescribed playlist in any one or a combination of the following formats: a written report short responses structured questions.

25

Outcome 3 Analyse and evaluate acting in a production. 25

Total marks

50
*School-assessed Coursework for Unit 4 contributes 15 per cent.

Stagecraft examination Description Students will interpret a monologue from a scene from a play from the Theatre Studies Stagecraft Examination Specifications set annually by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

The interpretation will draw on knowledge and skills from Unit 4, Outcome 1 and Outcome 2. Students will use selected stagecraft to present an interpretation of the monologue and explain their interpretive decisions.
Conditions The examination will be completed under the following conditions:

Duration: up to seven minutes. Date: October, on a date to be notified by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority examination rules will apply. Details of these rules are published annually in the VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook. The interpretation will be marked by assessors appointed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.
Contribution to final assessment The stagecraft examination will contribute 25 per cent.

VCE STUDY DESIGN

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Unit 4 THEATRE STUDIES 20142018

End-of-year written examination Description The examination will be set by a panel appointed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Key knowledge and key skills that underpin all outcomes in Unit 3 and Outcomes 2 and 3 in Unit 4 are examinable. Conditions The examination will be completed under the following conditions:

Duration: one and a half hours. Date: end-of-year, on a date to be published annually by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority examination rules will apply. Details of these rules are published annually in the VCE and VCAL Administrative Handbook. The interpretation will be marked by assessors appointed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.
Contribution to final assessment The written examination will contribute 30 per cent. Further advice The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority publishes specifications for all VCE examinations on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority website. Examination specifications include details about the sections of the examination, their weighting, the question format/s and any other essential information. The specifications are published in the first year of implementation of the revised Units 3 and 4 sequence together with any sample material.

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VCE STUDY DESIGN