Created by Angel Borths
Help…It’s all Greek to me! Join Angel Borths in this unit that uses a modern adaptation of the Ancient Greek play Antigone to introduce Middle School students to Ancient Greek Theatre.
Have your students read Percy Jackson and want to find out more about Ancient Greece? Then, this unit is for you. This unit is designed for middle and high school students and will take you through the basics of classical Greek theatre and pairs it with a modern adaptation of the story of Antigone called Agatha Rex by Lindsay Price. Students will learn vocabulary, design, and basic theory surrounding classical Greek theatre. Students will also enjoy the mask building component of this unit, as they learn to disappear into the character of a mask, like the first actors did on a Greek stage thousands of years ago.
The unit culminates in a scene performance with masks.
National Core Arts Standards
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work - Grade 6
TH:Cr1.1.6.a - Identify possible solutions to staging challenges in a drama/theatre work.
Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 6
Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art - Grade 6
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work - Grade 7
Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 7
TH:Pr4.1.7.a - Consider various staging choices to enhance the story in a drama/theatre work.
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work - Grade 8
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work - High School Proficient
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work - High School Advanced
Perceive and analyze artistic work - Grade HS Advanced
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade 6
Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation - Grade 6
TH:Pr5.1.6.b - Articulate how technical elements are integrated into a drama/ theatre work.
Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work - Grade 6
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade 7
Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work - Grade 7
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade 8
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade HS Proficient
Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work - Grade HS Proficient
Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade HS Proficient
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade HS Accomplished
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade HS Advanced
Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 6
Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 7
Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 7
Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work - Grade 7
TH:Re9.1.7.b - Consider the aesthetics of the production elements in a drama/theatre work.
Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 8
TH:Pr6.1.8.a - Perform a rehearsed drama/theatre work for an audience.
Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade 8
Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Proficient
Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work - Grade HS Proficient
Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Accomplished
Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work - Grade HS Advanced
Florida Sunshine State Standards
Critical Thinking & Reflection
Historical & Global Connections
Organizational Structure
California VAPA Standards (2019)
6.TH:Cr1 Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work
6.TH:Cr1.a - Identify possible solutions to staging challenges in a drama/theatre work.
6.TH:Pr4 Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation.
6.TH:Cn10 Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.
7.TH:Cr1 Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work
7.TH:Pr4 Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation.
7.TH:Pr4.a - Consider various staging choices to enhance the story in a drama/theatre work.
8.TH:Cr1 Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work
Prof.TH:Cr1 Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work
Adv.TH:Cr1 Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
Adv.TH:Re7 Perceive and analyze artistic work.
6.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
6.TH:Pr5 Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.
6.TH:Pr5.b - Articulate how technical theatre elements are integrated into a drama/ theatre work.
6.TH:Re8 Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
6.TH.Re8.b - Identify cultural contexts that may influence the evaluation of a drama/theatre work.
7.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
7.TH:Re8 Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
7.TH.Re8.b - Describe how cultural contexts can influence the evaluation of drama/theatre work.
8.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Prof.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Prof.TH:Re8 Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
Prof.TH:Cn11.1 Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding.
Acc.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Adv.TH:Cr2 Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
6.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.
6.TH:Cr3.b - Identify effective physical and vocal traits of characters in a drama/theatre work.
7.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.
7.TH:Pr6 Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.
67TH:Pr6 - Create through improvisation a drama/theatre work that will be shared with an audience.
7.TH:Re9 Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
8.TH:Pr6 Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.
8.TH:Pr6 - Perform a rehearsed, scripted scene from a drama/theatre work for an audience.
8.TH:Cn11.2 Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding.
Prof.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.
Prof.TH:Re9 Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
Acc.TH:Cr3 Refine and complete artistic work.
Adv.TH:Re9 Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
Common Core
Speaking and Listening
Language
Reading: Literature
Reading: Informational Text
Language
Georgia Performance Standards - Theatre Arts
Grade 6 - Performing
Grade 7 - Performing
Grade 8 - Performing
Grades 9-12 - ACTING LEVELS I-IV - Creating
Grades 9-12 - ACTING LEVELS I-IV - Connecting
Grades 9-12 - ADVANCED DRAMA LEVELS I-IV -Connecting
Grades 9-12 - FUNDAMENTALS OF THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Creating
Grades 9-12 - FUNDAMENTALS OF THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Performing
Grades 9-12 - FUNDAMENTALS OF THEATRE LEVELS I-IV - Connecting
Grades 9-12 - THEATRE HISTORY AND LITERATURE I AND II - Creating
Grades 9-12 - THEATRE HISTORY AND LITERATURE I AND II - Performing
Grades 9-12 - THEATRE HISTORY AND LITERATURE I AND II - Connecting
North Carolina Essential Standards 2024
Beginning High School Create
B.CR.1.1 - Devise a variety of scenarios and scenes through improvised and scripted activities.
B.CR.2.1 - Adapt theatrical works using personal experiences through a collaborative process.
Beginning High School Present
B.PR.2.1 - Develop scripted or devised theatre for presentation.
B.PR.2.4 - Identify the responsibilities of a performer in a variety of theatrical venues.
Beginning High School Respond
B.RE.1.1 - Analyze the dramatic structure of written and presented theatrical works.
Intermediate High School Create
I.CR.1.1 - Develop a variety of unique characters within given situations through improvisation.
Intermediate High School Present
I.PR.2.1 - Develop scenes for formal or informal presentations.
Intermediate High School Respond
I.RE.1.1 - Compare the structure, style and genre of various written and presented theatrical works.
I.RE.1.2 - Analyze how theatre artists' choices reflect various genres and styles.
Accomplished High School Present
AC.PR.1.2 - Display a progression of character moments within the performance of theatrical texts.
Accomplished High School Respond
Advanced High School Connect
Advanced High School Create
Advanced High School Present
AD.PR.2.4 - Adapt staging and direction for various stage configurations.
Advanced High School Respond
AD.RE.1.2 - Evaluate the impact of theatrical works on intended audiences.
North Carolina Essential Standards 2010
Beginning High School Standards - Communication
B.C.1.2 - Apply vocal elements of volume, pitch, rate, tone, articulation, and vocal expression.
Beginning High School Standards - Analysis
Beginning High School Standards - Culture
Intermediate High School Standards - Communication
I.C.2.2 - Interpret scenes through formal and informal presentations.
Intermediate High School Standards - Analysis
Proficient High School Standards - Communication
Proficient High School Standards - Analysis
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Theatre Arts
MS 117.211 LI - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
C.1.E - identify theatrical vocabulary and terminology, including basic anatomy of theatre spaces.
C.1.F - identify the structure and form in examples of dramatic literature.
MS 117.211 LI - Creative Expression: performance
MS 117.211 LI - Critical evaluation and response
C.5.A - identify and apply audience etiquette at all performances.
MS 117.212 LII - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
B.1.D - develop an increased understanding of the mechanisms of vocal production.
B.1.E - demonstrate knowledge of theatrical vocabulary and terminology.
B.1.F - analyze and evaluate the structure and form of dramatic literature.
MS 117.212 LII - Creative Expression: performance
B.2.A - demonstrate safe use of the voice and body.
B.2.C - select movements and dialogue to portray a character appropriately.
MS 117.212 LII - Historical and cultural relevance
MS 117.213 LIII - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
B.1.E - apply knowledge of theatrical vocabulary and terminology.
B.1.F - explore and evaluate the structure and form of dramatic literature.
MS 117.213 LIII - Creative Expression: performance
B.2.A - demonstrate safe use of the voice and body.
B.2.B - portray characters through familiar movements and dialogue.
MS 117.213 LIII - Historical and cultural relevance
MS 117.213 LIII - Critical evaluation and response
HS 117.315 LI - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
C.1.D - develop and practice effective voice and diction to express thoughts and feelings.
HS 117.315 LI - Creative Expression: performance
C.2.C - employ effective voice and diction to express thoughts and feelings.
HS 117.315 LI - Creative Expression: production
HS 117.315 LI - Historical and cultural relevance
C.4.A - portray theatre as a reflection of life in particular times, places, and cultures.
C.4.B - relate historical and cultural influences on theatre.
HS 117.316 LII - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
C.1.C - demonstrate effective voice and diction.
HS 117.316 LII - Creative Expression: performance
C.2.A - model safe, appropriate techniques to allow for physical, vocal, and emotional expression.
C.2.B - explore creativity as it relates to self and ensemble.
HS 117.316 LII - Creative Expression: production
HS 117.316 LII - Historical and cultural relevance
C.4.A - analyze historical and cultural influences on theatre.
HS 117.317 LIII - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
C.1.B - experiment with stage movement.
HS 117.317 LIII - Creative Expression: performance
C.2.A - employ safe, appropriate techniques to allow for physical, vocal, and emotional expression.
HS 117.317 LIII - Creative Expression: production
HS 117.317 LIII - Historical and cultural relevance
C.4.A - evaluate historical and cultural influences on theatre.
HS 117.318 LIV - Foundations: Inquiry and Understanding
C.1.E - evaluate theatrical conventions of various cultural and historical periods.
HS 117.318 LIV - Historical and cultural relevance
C.4.A - evaluate historical and cultural influences on theatre.
Alberta, Canada
Technical Theatre/Design 10-20-30 - Costume
Speech Drama 10
10 - demonstrate safe and appropriate projection
2 - apply effective breathing techniques
3 - recognize the effect of good posture on voice
5 - recognize how the jaw, lips, tongue, teeth and velum play an important role in articulation
Speech Drama 30
Improvisation Drama 10
10 - demonstrate appropriate rehearsal methods
24 - select and use vocal techniques appropriate to a character
26 - use body language to add physical dimensions and depth to a character
3 - maintain concentration during exercises
Acting Drama 20
1 - analyze a script for explicit character clues
10 - critique the work of self and others through observation of specific details
2 - create, select and sustain physical details of the character from scripted material
Theatre Studies Drama 30 (Early or Middle or Late drama)
Movement Drama 10
10 - demonstrate focus, concentration and energy in all movement and gesture
Technical Theatre/Design 10-20-30 - Management - Set
1 - demonstrate understanding of the purpose of stage scenery
Playwriting - Drama 20
1 - demonstrate understanding of the basic structure of a play
2 - define and identify plot, character, thought and diction
Improvisation/Acting Level III - Advanced
30 - analyze text for meaning and character development
32 - rehearse, polish and present text
33 - critique the work of self and others through observation of specific details
Junior Goal II Objectives
Junior Goal III Objectives
develop awareness of drama and theatre presentations as possible
develop awareness of various conventions of theatre
develop the ability to analyze and assess the process and the art
Junior Orientation
communicate through use of voice and body
demonstrate a willingness to take calculated and reasonable risks
demonstrate awareness of the multidisciplinary nature of drama/theatre
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
recognize that there is an historical and cultural aspect of drama/theatre
share ideas confidently with others
show awareness of story sequence
Movement Level I - Beginning
17 - use movement to communicate non-verbally
Movement Level III - Advanced
28 - coordinate movement and movement patterns with other students
Speech Level I - Beginning
3 - use effective breathing techniques
5 - recognize the need to control and protect the voice
6 - use volume appropriate to situation
8 - understand volume, articulation, projection, rate, pause, phrasing, pitch and intonation
Speech Level II - Intermediate
10 - demonstrate effects of intonation, rate, pause and phrasing on the meaning of words
11 - use pitch to effect quality of voice production
13 - use voice to communicate mood and emotion
9 - use volume, articulation and projection to achieve clarity
Speech Level III - Advanced
16 - use movement and gesture to clarify and enhance speech and character
Improvisation/Acting Level I - Beginning
12 - make logical choices within the boundaries of situation and character
7 - use stage vocabulary: stage areas, body positions and crosses
8 - demonstrate appropriate rehearsal behaviours and routines
9 - communicate a clear beginning, middle and end in spontaneous and planned scenes
Improvisation/Acting Level II - Intermediate
15 - use the body and body language to enhance characterization
20 - enter and exit in character
21 - sustain a character throughout an exercise or scene
24 - recognize that relationships exist between characters in given situations
25 - demonstrate understanding of focus and the processes of sharing, giving and taking
Junior Goal I Objectives
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 interact effectively and constructively in a group process
develop the ability to offer and accept constructive criticism
develop the willingness to make a decision, act upon it and accept the results
explore and develop physical and vocal capabilities
Theatre Studies Level II - Intermediate (Theatre History)
Theatre Studies Level III - Advanced (The script)
10 - demonstrate understanding of the concept of dramatic convention
11 - demonstrate understanding of plot structure
12 - analyze a script to identify character, setting and plot
7 - define the elements of script, dialogue, directions, characters and settings
8 - demonstrate understanding of directions used in a script
Technical Theatre - Levels I, II, III - Awareness
1 - recognize the basic terminology associated with the component being studied
5 - demonstrate understanding of the various conventions of the components being studied
Technical Theatre - Levels I, II, III - Readiness
6 - demonstrate understanding of the importance of planning and organization
7 - select a project appropriate to the component being studied
8 - demonstrate understanding of the use of colour, shape and texture to achieve a desired effect
Technical Theatre - Application
13 - determine and acquire necessary supplies or substitutes to construct the planned project
14 - use appropriate tools and skills to assemble or construct the planned project
Senior Goal I Objectives
apply imaginative and creative thought to problem-solving situations
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 considered decisions, act upon them and accept the results
demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively and constructively to the group process
demonstrate the ability to initiate, organize and present a project within a given set of guidelines
develop a positive and realistic self-image
develop a sense of inquiry and commitment to learning
extend physical and vocal capabilities
Senior Goal II Objectives
be capable of creating and expressing a believable character from scripted and non-scripted material
demonstrate understanding of integration of disciplines to enrich a theatrical presentation
explore various approaches to analyzing a script for purposes of study and/or presentation
Senior Goal III Objectives
Orientation Drama 10
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
display consideration and respect for self and others
make effective decisions or choices
positively support the work of others
British Columbia (2018)
GRADE 6 - ARTS - Exploring and creating
Explore relationships between identity, place, culture, society, and belonging through the arts
GRADE 6 - ARTS - Reasoning and reflecting
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
GRADE 6 - ARTS - Communicating and documenting
Describe, interpret and respond to works of art and explore artists’ intent
GRADE 7 - ARTS - Exploring and creating
Explore relationships between identity, place, culture, society, and belonging through the arts
GRADE 7 - ARTS - Reasoning and reflecting
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
GRADE 7 - ARTS - Communicating and documenting
Describe, interpret and respond to works of art
Express, feelings, ideas, and experiences through the arts
Take creative risks to express feelings, ideas, and experiences
GRADE 8 - ARTS - Exploring and creating
GRADE 8 - ARTS - Reasoning and reflecting
Interpret works of art using knowledge and skills from various areas of learning
Reflect on works of art and creative processes to understand artists motivations and meanings
GRADE 8 - ARTS - Communicating and documenting
Describe, interpret and respond to works of art
Take creative risks to express feelings, ideas, and experiences
GRADE 9 - DRAMA - Exploring and creating
Take creative risks to experience and express thoughts, emotions, and meaning
GRADE 9 - DRAMA - Reasoning and reflecting
GRADE 9 - DRAMA - Connecting and expanding
Demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and the audience
GRADE 10 - DRAMA - Explore and Create
Develop a repertoire of dramatic skills and techniques through presentation or performance
GRADE 10 - DRAMA - Reason and reflect
Apply feedback to develop and refine ideas
Describe, analyze, and respond using drama-specific language
Examine the influences of social, cultural, historical, environmental, and personal context on drama
Reflect on dramatic experiences and how they relate to a specific place, time, and context
Reflect on dramatic works and make connections with personal experiences
GRADE 10 - DRAMA - Connect and expand
GRADE 11 - DRAMA - Explore and Create
Create dramatic works for an intended audience
Develop a repertoire of dramatic skills and techniques through presentation or performance
Explore and create dramatic works to express ideas, meaning, and emotions
Improvise and take creative risks using imagination, exploration, and inquiry
GRADE 11 - DRAMA - Reason and reflect
Demonstrate awareness of self, others, and audience
Receive and apply constructive feedback to develop and refine ideas
GRADE 11 - DRAMA - Connect and expand
GRADE 12 - DRAMA - Explore and Create
Develop dramatic works for an intended audience
Improvise and take creative risks using imagination, exploration, and inquiry
GRADE 12 - DRAMA - Reason and reflect
Receive, provide, and apply constructive feedback to refine dramatic works
Use self-reflection and awareness of audience to refine ideas
GRADE 12 - DRAMA - Connect and expand
Ontario, Canada
Grades 9 & 10 - Foundations - Responsible Practices
Grades 9 & 10 - Foundations - Context and Influences
Grades 9 & 10 - Foundations - Concepts and Terminology
Grades 9 & 10 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing - Connections Beyond the Classroom
Grades 9 & 10 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing - Drama and Society
Grades 9 & 10 - Reflecting, Responding and Analyzing - The Critical Analysis Process
Grades 9 & 10 - Creating and Presenting - Presentation Techniques & Technologies
Virginia Standards Of Learning (2020)
Grade Six
6.3 - The student will analyze, interpret, and evaluate theatrical works
6.4 - The student will identify connections between personal experience and dramatizations
6.5 - The student will identify communication and collaboration skills for theatre experiences.
Grade Seven
7.3 - The student will analyze, interpret, and evaluate theatre.
7.4 - The student will justify personal responses to theatrical productions.
Grade Seven
7.11 - The student will explain how other fine arts and fields of knowledge are applied in theatre
Grade Eight
8.3 - The student will analyze, interpret, and evaluate theatre.
8.5 - The student will apply communication and collaboration skills for theatre experiences.
Grade Eight
Theatre Arts I: Introduction to Theatre
TI.2 - The student will apply a creative process for theatre.
Theatre Arts I: Introduction to Theatre
TI.5 - The student will apply communication and collaboration skills for theatre experiences.
Theatre Arts I: Introduction to Theatre
TI.6 - The student will explore historical and cultural aspects of theatrical works.
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