This project aims to immerse 6th-grade students in the rich history and transformative power of masks in theatre, fostering a deeper understanding of identity and expression. Through hands-on activities and collaborative creation, students will explore the evolution of theatrical performance and character development, culminating in a devised drama piece that communicates a chosen theme. By engaging with community partners and performing for an audience, students will enhance their communication skills, critical thinking, and self-directed learning, while building a sense of belonging and identity within their community.
Learning goals
Students will explore the historical significance and cultural origins of masks in theatre, focusing on Greek comedy and tragedy, as well as Jacques Lecoq's neutral mask techniques. They will collaboratively devise and perform a drama piece that uses masks to express universal themes or social issues, enhancing their understanding of identity and expression in theatre. Throughout the project, students will engage in critical reflection, peer feedback, and self-assessment to refine their performances, while developing effective communication skills and fostering a sense of belonging and identity through shared creative experiences.
Standards
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cn11.1.6.a - Identify universal themes or common social issues and express them through a drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cr2.6.a - Use critical analysis to improve, refine, and evolve original ideas and artistic choices in a devised or scripted drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cr2.6.b - Contribute ideas and accept and incorporate the ideas of others in preparing or devising drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cr3.6.b - Identify effective physical and vocal traits of characters in an improvised or scripted drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr4.6.a - Identify the essential events in a story or script that make up the dramatic structure in a drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr4.6.b - Experiment with various physical choices to communicate character in a drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr5.6.a - Recognize how acting exercises and techniques can be applied to a drama/theatre work.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr6.6.a - Adapt a drama/theatre work and present it informally for an audience.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
Products
Students will collaboratively create and perform a devised drama piece using masks that explores a chosen theme or message. Throughout the project, they will engage in physical theatre exercises, including specific Jacques Lecoq neutral mask techniques, to develop their characters and enhance their performance skills. The final product will be an informal performance presented in a community meeting space, allowing students to showcase their understanding of identity and expression through masks. Additionally, students will document their process and reflections in a creative portfolio, incorporating peer and community feedback to refine their work.
Launch
Begin with an immersive team-building activity, fostering creativity and collaboration. Follow this with physical theatre exercises inspired by Jacques Lecoq's neutral mask techniques to introduce the concept of using masks to explore identity and expression. Enhance understanding with an engaging slideshow presentation on the history of masks in theatre, complemented by informative videos showcasing their evolution and significance. This launch will set the stage for students to delve into the essential questions and begin their journey of devising a drama piece.
Exhibition
Students will present their devised drama pieces at a community center, transforming the space into an interactive theatre experience. The exhibition will include performances that highlight the transformative power of masks in storytelling and character development. Community members will be invited to provide feedback, fostering a dialogue between students and the audience. This setting encourages students to showcase their learning, engage in meaningful reflection, and refine their work based on real-world interactions.
