Unit
Aristotle's Elements
Created by Lea Marshall
12 lessons
Aristotle was a huge fan of the theatre. He philosophically believed in it and argued with other great thinkers at the time about the necessity and good results of theatrical pursuits. This makes him a great topic for a drama classroom unit.
Aristotle identified six elements that needed to be in a play for it to be worthy: plot, thought, character, diction, spectacle, and sound. This unit by Lea Marshall focuses on and offers exercises for each of Aristotle’s elements - from using fairy tales to examine plot, to re-imagining movie trailers to explore music.
Start here
The overview provides an introduction to the big ideas of the unit, as well as a detailed lesson-by-lesson timeline and map.
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1Lesson 1Three Philosophers Walk Into a ClassroomTo introduce students to Aristotle and his connection to theatre.
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2Lesson 2It's Element(ary), My DearTo introduce students to Aristotle’s six elements.
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3Lesson 3The Plot's the ThingTo introduce the Aristotelian element of plot.
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4Lesson 4Plotting AlongTo continue applying the Aristotelian element of plot.
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5Lesson 5Thinking About ThoughtsTo introduce the Aristotelian element of Thought.
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6Lesson 6Got Thoughts?To continue applying the Aristotelian element of Thought.
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7Lesson 7Character MattersTo introduce the Aristotelian element of Character.
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8Lesson 8Speak the SpeechTo introduce the Aristotelian element of Diction.
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9Lesson 9I Got the MusicTo introduce the Aristotelian element of Music.
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10Lesson 10Spectacular, SpectacularTo introduce the Aristotelian element of Spectacle.
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11Lesson 11Final ProjectTo have students apply what they have learned.
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12Lesson 12Bonus Lesson: The Three Vs of StorytellingThis can be a standalone lesson, or an add-on to the unit. It introduces the concept of the 3 V's: VIEWERS are looking for a VICARIOUS, VULNERABLE, and/or VISCERAL experience.
Standards Addressed
Grade 6 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing
- B2.1 express personal responses and preferences and make connections to themes and issues presented in their own and others’ drama works
- B2.2 identify a favourite scene and give reasons for their preference, using correct drama terminology to describe how the elements of drama contribute to its effectiveness
Grade 6 - Creating and Presenting
Grade 7 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing
- B2.1 construct personal interpretations of drama works, connecting drama issues and themes to their own and others’ ideas, feelings, and experiences
- B2.2 analyse and describe, using drama terminology, how drama elements are used to communicate meaning in a variety of drama works and shared drama experiences
Grade 7 - Creating and Presenting
- B1.2 demonstrate an understanding of the elements of drama by selecting and combining several elements and conventions to create dramatic effects
- B1.4 communicate feelings, thoughts, and abstract ideas through drama works, using audio, visual, and/or technological aids to heighten the dramatic experience
Grade 8 - Creating and Presenting
Grades 9 & 10 - Foundations - Responsible Practices
- C.3.2 identify and apply the skills and attitudes needed to perform various tasks and responsibilities in producing drama works (e.g., use active listening and cooperative problem-solving skills; practise punctuality; use tact in suggesting changes and improvements; demonstrate willingness to accept criticism and build consensus)
- C.3.3 demonstrate an understanding of theatre and audience etiquette, in both classroom and formal performance contexts (e.g., as a performer: show willingness to take direction and behave appropriately towards other actors; as a viewer: demonstrate respect for performers and other audience members by paying attention, not interrupting or talking, and applauding when appropriate)
Grades 9 & 10 - Creating and Presenting - Presentation Techniques & Technologies
Grade 11 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing - The Critical Analysis Process
Grade 12 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing - The Critical Analysis Process
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