Theatre Arts: Grade 8

Creative Process

Critical Thinking and Communication

History, Culture, and Citizenship

Innovation in the Arts

Technique and Application

The student will refine creative problem-solving, ensemble-building, and improvisational skills by devising and improvising theatrical works.

The student will demonstrate a creative process for theatre.

The student will analyze, interpret, and evaluate theatre.

The student will explain responses to theatrical productions based on personal background and experience.

The student will apply communication and collaboration skills for theatre experiences.

The student will explore historical and cultural aspects of theatrical works.

The student will identify theatre resources in the community and the Commonwealth including but not limited to professional, community, and educational theatres.

The student will identify and discuss digital citizenship as it relates to the research and presentation of theatrical works.

The student will examine a selected career in theatre, television, film, or contemporary media.

The student will explore the use of digital media in the creative process and in the production of a theatre performance.

The student will synthesize knowledge from other content areas to support theatre arts processes.

The student will develop physical and vocal technique for theatre performance.

The student will use character analysis techniques to research, develop, and present a scripted character.

The student will demonstrate the mental and physical discipline necessary for creating and maintaining an imagined reality during performance.

The student will fulfill the duties and responsibilities of a production staff member.

The student will develop technical theatre and production skills. 

Document research of theatre topics of personal interest.

Reflect on growth and learning in theatre.

Use theatre vocabulary appropriately when discussing and writing about theatre.

Identify how literary elements further the development of plot, character, setting, mood, dialogue, and conflict in a script.

Explain the playwright’s use of character, setting, and theme in a script to convey meaning. 

Identify symbolism, implied meaning, and theme in theatrical works. 

Critique a live or recorded theatrical performance, using developed criteria and theatre arts vocabulary.

Demonstrate the ability to accept and use constructive criticism

Communicate themes and concepts through individual and group performances, demonstrating teamwork, cooperation, commitment, and dependability.

Identify and demonstrate appropriate backstage procedures, performance protocols, and audience etiquette.

Collaborate to achieve unified productions, demonstrating respect for self, others, and the theatrical form.

Analyze how theatre and team-building exercises support the development of ensemble skills.

Identify social, cultural, and historical influences of theatrical works.

Investigate and identify how theatre and media reflect and influence cultural perspectives.  

Identify and examine ethical and cultural issues related to theatre arts.

Refine vocal choices and technique to communicate a character. 

Use movement, gesture, and other forms of physical expression as a means of communicating the physical, psychological, and emotional dimensions of a character. 

Demonstrate safety procedures in all rehearsal and performance spaces.

Identify examples of theatre occurring in unique environments and physical spaces.

Design and use technical elements (e.g., lighting, scenery, costumes, properties, sound) to illustrate environment, character, mood, and/or theatrical style.