1/9/09 Drama

• Now that we have computer speakers---Replay and complete the recording about how to develop character voices. Pause the play periodically to discuss what was said and make points about the notes students should include in the assignment
• Assign level 1 their Chapter 7 project. Student will go through the process explained in the tape to create a character voice. They will write a journal/explanation about the how's, why's, and what's related to the following items to consider in creating their character: volume, pitch, rate/timing, diction, voice quality, word choice, and accent. The paper should begin with a brief description of the character the voice is to represent. The second part of the assignment is actually to perform and record the voice on Audacity and save as a mp3 file to turn in.
• Level 2 students are to choose a character from Merchant of Venice whom they will use as their focus. Part 1 of the assignment is to get (from the internet) or draw the costume appropriate for their character (they will be allowed to use the class computers) and notate explanations relevant to the different parts of the costume - especially those parts that are different from today's wardrobe. Part 2 is to create correct stage make up for their character. They are to make themselves up and either wear to school for me to evaluate in person, or submit a picture (digital or otherwise) of their final make-up work.
• Level 3 student will make a classroom speech every two weeks on a different segment of his book work. The speech will conform to all standards of presentation excellence which was explained in detail. At the end of the grading period, the student will perform a 2 to 5 minute performance from his chosen historical time period. The performance is required to be at the quality level expected of someone being paid to perform.
• Exploratory student was set up with a laptop logon. She was assigned to learn all basic computer procedures including logon and save. She was additionally assigned to work toward mastery of the following 3 programs: Audacity, Inspiration, and Picasa (in that order). The student will act as monitor and assistant to students working on the laptops, for me and for other teachers.