In the Monologue Unit, students will learn the building blocks of monologues while writing a simple monologue. This unit is divided into two parts.
In part one, the Monologue Writing Made Easy unit by Matt Banaszynski is reviewed or executed in full, depending on class needs.
In part two, students will dissect monologues as a vehicle for character and performance and will write more refined monologues based on existing fictional characters from fairytales or myths. Students will then rehearse and perform their monologues, as a final project for the unit.
The overview lays out the objectives, description, and lessons for the unit, including pre-knowledge requirements and review.
Part one of this unit includes either the execution of the Monologue Writing Made Easy unit, or a review of concepts, depending on your class needs.
- If materials have not been previously introduced, execute the entire unit before starting part two.
- If some materials have been previously covered, review major concepts and terminology, introduce any new concepts, then move on to part two.
Students apply the Rashomon format to understand the concept of seeing a familiar story through a different set of eyes.
Students review a monologue to analyse components that make a good monologue (A need to speak. A specific character voice. A journey). Students will use this criteria as the basis of their original monologue.
Expanding on the criteria of a good monologue, students will write a short ”need to speak” monologue.
Students will perform their revised monologues. The teacher will evaluate the monologues with the provided rubric.
TH:Pr4.1.7.b - Use various character objectives in a drama/theatre work.
7.TH:Pr4.b - Use various character objectives in a drama/theatre work.
P.C.1.3 - Create original works, such as monologues, scenes, or performance pieces.
P.C.2.2 - Interpret monologues through formal and informal presentations.
A.C.1.3 - Use constructive criticism to improve original works both written and read orally.
A.A.1.2 - Critique performances of written texts based on a set of given criteria.
C.1.E - identify theatrical vocabulary and terminology, including basic anatomy of theatre spaces.
C.2.B - imagine and clearly describe characters, their relationships, and their surroundings.
B.1.E - demonstrate knowledge of theatrical vocabulary and terminology.
B.1.F - analyze and evaluate the structure and form of dramatic literature.
B.2.B - define characters by what they do, what they say, and what others say about them.
B.1.E - apply knowledge of theatrical vocabulary and terminology.
B.1.F - explore and evaluate the structure and form of dramatic literature.
1 - demonstrate understanding of the basic structure of a play
13 - give and accept constructive criticism
2 - define and identify plot, character, thought and diction
3 - demonstrate understanding of script format
4 - generate and collect ideas that have dramatic possibilities
focus concentration on one task at a time
generate imaginative and creative solutions to problems
meet deadlines and follow through on individual and group commitments
offer and accept constructive criticism, given specific guidelines, with a desire to improve
recognize the purposes of and participate in warmup activities
develop a sense of responsibility and commitment
develop the ability to initiate, organize and present a project within a given set of guidelines
develop the ability to offer and accept constructive criticism
develop the willingness to make a decision, act upon it and accept the results
1 - demonstrate understanding of the need for analysis of the work of self and others
10 - demonstrate understanding of the concept of dramatic convention
11 - demonstrate understanding of plot structure
7 - define the elements of script, dialogue, directions, characters and settings
8 - demonstrate understanding of directions used in a script
demonstrate a sense of inquiry and commitment, individually and to the group
demonstrate a sense of responsibility and commitment, individually and to the group
demonstrate the ability to initiate, organize and present a project within a given set of guidelines
demonstrate the ability to offer, accept, and reflect upon, constructive criticism
develop a sense of inquiry and commitment to learning
concentrate on the task at hand
demonstrate behaviour appropriate to given circumstances
demonstrate effective use and management of time
demonstrate self-discipline, self-direction and a sense of responsibility
make effective decisions or choices
Interpret works of art using knowledge and skills from various areas of learning
Reflect on works of art and creative processes to understand artists' intentions
Describe, interpret and respond to works of art and explore artists’ intent
Express, feelings, ideas, and experiences through the arts
Take creative risks to express feelings, ideas, and experiences
Express, feelings, ideas, and experiences through the arts
Take creative risks to express feelings, ideas, and experiences
Take creative risks to express feelings, ideas, and experiences
Take creative risks to experience and express thoughts, emotions, and meaning
Demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and the audience
Create dramatic works with an intended audience in mind
Develop a repertoire of dramatic skills and techniques through presentation or performance
Develop performance skills in a variety of contexts
Explore and create dramatic works to express ideas and emotions
Explore dramatic works through presentation or performance
Create dramatic works for an intended audience
Develop a repertoire of dramatic skills and techniques through presentation or performance
Develop and refine performance skills in a variety of contexts
Explore and create dramatic works to express ideas, meaning, and emotions
Improvise and take creative risks using imagination, exploration, and inquiry
Purposefully select and combine dramatic elements and conventions
Receive and apply constructive feedback to develop and refine ideas
Develop and refine performance skills in a variety of contexts
Develop dramatic works for an intended audience
Explore and create dramatic works to express ideas, meaning, and emotions
Improvise and take creative risks using imagination, exploration, and inquiry
Intentionally select and combine dramatic elements and conventions