East Central Ohio Area Media Center

Resources for Drama/Theater 5-8 Benchmarks

Historical, Cultural and Social Contexts

Students understand and appreciate the historical, social, political and cultural contexts of drama/theater in societies both past and present. Students identify significant contributions of playwrights, actors, designers, technicians, composers/lyricists, choreographers, directors, producing organizations and inventors to dramatic/theatrical heritage. Students analyze the social and political forces that have influenced and do influence the function and role of drama/theater in the lives of people.

A. Explain the style of a dramatic/theatrical work in historical or cultural context.

B. Compare and contrast playwrights and/or screenwriters from various time periods.

Creative Expression and Communication

Students improvise, create, produce and perform dramatic/theatrical works. Students experiment with dramatic/theatrical processes, develop dramatic/theatrical skills and participate in drama/theater.

A. Use basic acting skills (e.g., voice, posture, movement, language) to develop characterizations.

B. Explain the functions and interrelated nature of scenery, props, lighting, sound, costumes and makeup to create an environment appropriate for drama.

C. Explore the roles and responsibilities of various theatrical personnel.

D. Create scripted scenes based on personal experience and heritage.

Analyzing and Responding

Students respond to dramatic/theatrical texts, experiences and performances by describing the distinguishing characteristics and interpreting the meaning, themes and moods. Students analyze the creative techniques used in creating and performing dramatic/theatrical works and evaluate dramatic/theatrical works using appropriate criteria.

A. Use appropriate dramatic/theatrical vocabulary, elements and principles.

B. Discuss the collaborative nature of drama/theater as a vehicle for the expression of ideas.

C. Articulate opinions about dramatic/theatrical works using established criteria.

Valuing the Arts/Aesthetic Reflection

Students demonstrate an understanding of reasons why people value drama/theater and a respect for diverse opinions regarding dramatic/theatrical preferences. Students develop a personal drama/theater philosophy and articulate the significance of drama/theater in their lives.

A. Defend a personal response to a drama/theater event.

B. Compare their personal response to a drama/theater event with the response of another person.

Connections, Relationships and Applications

Students identify similarities and differences between drama/theater and other art forms. Students recognize the relationship between concepts and skills learned through drama/theater with knowledge learned in other curricular subjects, life experiences and potential careers within and outside the arts. Students recognize the benefits of lifelong learning in drama/theater.

A. Discover the interdependence of theater and other art forms./a>

B. Explain the relationship between concepts and skills used in drama/theater with other c.urricular subjects.

C. Identify recurring drama/theater ideas and concepts that occur across time periods and/or cultures.

D. Discuss drama/theater skills as a foundation for lifelong learning and potential employment.

Other Drama/Theater Grade Level Benchmarks

Grades K-4 Drama/Theater Benchmarks

Grades 9-12 Drama/Theater Benchmarks

Other Arts Grade Level Benchmarks

Grades K-4 Dance Benchmarks

Grades 5-8 Dance Benchmarks

Grades 9-12 Dance Benchmarks

Grades K-4 Music Benchmarks

Grades 5-8 Music Benchmarks

Grades 9-12 Music Benchmarks

Grades K-4 Visual Art Benchmarks

Grades 5-8 Visual Art Benchmarks

Grades 9-12 Visual Art Benchmarks

Other Academic Content Standards

English Language Arts

Science

Social Studies

Foreign Language

Technology

Library