Courses

Course Syllabus

DRAM1351 - Introduction to Acting

Catalog Description: Introduction to the basic techniques of acting, with major emphasis on diction and character development. Opportunity to participate in the Drama Department's productions. Class scenes required. Lecture Hrs = 2, Lab Hrs = 2

Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite: READ 300 or ESOL 310 or equivalent

Semester Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours per Week:
Lab Hours per Week:
Contact Hours per Semester: 64
State Approval Code: 5005035130

Course Subject/Catalog Number: DRAM 1351
Course Title: Introduction to Acting

Instructional Goals and Purposes:

Lee College’s instructional goals include:

1. creating an academic atmosphere in which students may develop their intellects and skills and
2. providing courses so students may receive a certificate/an associate degree or transfer to a senior institution that offers baccalaureate degrees.

General Course Objectives:

Introduction to acting is designed for the beginning actor. Primary focus of the course is to introduce the student to the methodology of professional actors. Stanislavski’s Method Acting is the primary acting theory used in the course. The course is intended to expose students to basic acting theories, increase their knowledge of literature, and create and/or reinforce an appreciation for the craft.

Specific Course Objectives:

1. To introduce student to the basic practices and methodology through which professional actors prepare, build and perform a character.
2. To introduce student to the history, theory and practice of acting.
3. To acquire basic acting vocabulary, techniques and etiquette.
4. To explore a range of exercises and approaches utilized by actors.
5. To provide individual (monologues), partner (scenes) and group (improvisations, discussions) experiences which are central to the art of performance. Additional foundational work in auditioning and improvisation will also be introduced.
6. To read and see plays and learn basic analytical skills and how to apply them to both text and performance.
7. To enhance the students’ understanding and appreciation of acting as an art form, career option or stepping stone.

Course Content:

Students will be required to do the following:

1. Perform monologues, scenes with other students, and improvisational pieces.
2. Keep a journal of observations.
3. Read plays assigned by the instructor.
4. Attend productions during the semester.

Students may also be required to:

1. Read and research topics on acting.

Methods of Instruction/Course Format/Delivery:

Faculty may choose from but are not limited to the following methods of instruction: lecture, discussion, Internet, video, television, demonstrations, field trips, collaboration, and readings.

Assessment:

Faculty may assign both in- and out-of-class activities to evaluate students’ knowledge and abilities. Faculty may choose from the following methods:

• Class preparedness and participation
• Collaborative learning projects
• Compositions
• Exams/tests/quizzes
• Homework
• Internet
• Journals
• Library assignments
• Readings
• Research papers
• Written assignments

Course Grade:

Your final grade will be based on your written work, in combination with a careful review of your development in your performance work. See the instructor’s syllabi for their specific grading policy.  

Texts, Materials, and Supplies:

1. For current texts, use the following link to access bookstore listings.
2. Clothing appropriate for physical movement.
3. Notebook
4. Journal
5. Pencil with eraser

Other:

• Faculty Vitae
• Faculty Course Material
• Department Budget
• Six-hour Rule
• Class Attendance
• The Academic Honesty Code
• Students with Disabilities