California Standards
for Theatre 8

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  • 1.0 ARTISTIC PERCEPTION
    Processing, Analyzing, and Responding to Sensory Information Through the Language and Skills Unique to Theatre Students observe their environment and respond, using the elements of theatre. They also observe formal and informal works of theatre, film/video, and electronic media and respond, using the vocabulary of theatre.
  • Development of the Vocabulary of Theatre
  • 1.1 Use the vocabulary of theatre, such as ensemble, proscenium, thrust, and arena staging, to describe theatrical experiences.
  • Comprehension and Analysis of the Elements of Theatre
  • 1.2 Identify and analyze recurring themes and patterns (e.g., loyalty, bravery, revenge, redemption) in a script to make production choices in design and direction.
  • 1.3 Analyze the use of figurative language and imagery in dramatic texts.
  • 2.0 CREATIVE EXPRESSION
    Creating, Performing, and Participating in Theatre Students apply processes and skills in acting, directing, designing, and scriptwriting to create formal and informal theatre, film/videos, and electronic media productions and to perform in them.
  • Development of Theatrical Skills
  • 2.1 Create short dramatizations in selected styles of theatre, such as melodrama, vaudeville, and musical theatre.
  • Creation/Invention in Theatre
  • 2.2 Perform character-based improvisations, pantomimes, or monologues, using voice, blocking, and gesture to enhance meaning.
  • 3.0 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT
    Understanding the Historical Contributions and Cultural Dimensions of Theatre Students analyze the role and development of theatre, film/video, and electronic media in past and present cultures throughout the world, noting diversity as it relates to theatre.
  • Role and Cultural Significance of Theatre
  • 3.1 Describe the ways in which American history has been reflected in theatre (e.g., the ways in which the Industrial Revolution and slavery were portrayed in the minstrel show, the melodrama, and the musical).
  • History of Theatre
  • 3.2 Identify and explain how technology has changed American theatre (e.g., how stage lighting has progressed from candlelight to gaslight to limelight to electrical light to digital light).
  • 4.0 AESTHETIC VALUING
    Responding to, Analyzing, and Critiquing Theatrical Experiences Students critique and derive meaning from works of theatre, film/video, electronic media, and theatrical artists on the basis of aesthetic qualities.
  • Critical Assessment of Theatre
  • 4.1 Develop criteria and write a formal review of a theatrical production.
  • Derivation of Meaning from Works of Theatre
  • 4.2 Compare and contrast how works of theatre from different cultures or time periods convey the same or similar content or plot.
  • 5.0 CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS, APPLICATIONS
    Connecting and Applying What Is Learned in Theatre, Film/Video, and Electronic Media to Other Art Forms and Subject Areas and to Careers Students apply what they learn in theatre, film/video, and electronic media across subject areas. They develop competencies and creative skills in problem solving, communication, and time management that contribute to lifelong learning and career skills. They also learn about careers in and related to theatre.
  • Connections and Applications
  • 5.1 Use theatrical skills to present content or concepts in other subject areas, such as creating a video on cellular mitosis.
  • Careers and Career-Related Skills
  • 5.2 Identify career options in the dramatic arts, such as cinematographer, stage manager, radio announcer, or dramaturg; and research the education, training, and work experience necessary in that field.