Course Syllabus
THAR 10B: SCENE STUDY AND CHARACTERIZATION
Course Syllabus Summary: FALL 2021 (Section 2155)
Course Description
This enjoyable, yet fast paced, course is designed to provide you with a solid background in character development through script analysis, vocal /physical techniques, and the study of a variety of acting tools. The primary mode of learning and assessment in this class is scene study. You will perform in three different kinds of scenes, as well as assemble a contrasting monologue package by semester's end. In addition, you'll be creating a unique portrayal of a classmate for one of your first performance assignments!
In between performances, we will explore a range of techniques and approaches to acting that you can apply to your performance work. There will be both homework and out-of-class rehearsals expected for this class; make certain you can make the full commitment because your actions directly affect others in this course. If you "choose to accept this mission," I am delighted and I look forward to working with you!
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of THAR 10A or college equivalent. Transferable: CSU and UC.
Student Learning Outcomes
(from the official Course Outline of Record – view full Outline on college’s website)
“Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to develop, rehearse and perform a variety of roles in scenes and monologues from modern realistic plays, creating distinct and believable characterizations through the application of physical and vocal techniques, script analysis, research, and varied acting methodologies.”
Class Meetings
This course will meet in person and synchronistically, Tuesday and Thursday from 2:30-4:50pm. That means that we will meet "face to face" in our gorgeous new Acting Lab, Rm. 129, twice a week, as scheduled. (The class is listed to end at 5:00pm, but we end at 4:50pm). We will usually take a 10 minute break at midpoint.
During each class meeting, we'll work in a variety of ways, as a group in the main classroom, in teams in breakout spaces, and sometimes in individual coaching sessions. There may also be times when we use Zoom as an instructional tool, either for coaching or for visits from guest artists.
Instructor Contact
Instructor: Laura Downing-Lee
(Students are welcome to call me "Laura", "Ms. Downing-Lee", or "Ms. Lee"; use whichever you are most comfortable using. My preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers)
Instructor Email: ldowning@santarosa.edu
Instructor Phone: (707) 527-4420
(Calls will go to Voice Mail; I will receive an email notification of the voice mail and return your call as soon as I can.)
Instructor Office: Burbank Room 148
Office Hours: Tues./Thurs. 1:00-2:00. (Email me for an office hour appointment; I'll send you the Zoom link with my confirmation.)
If none of my office hour times work for you, contact me and we will set up a special appointment.
Course Website
Students will use our Canvas course website for the majority of our course communication and organization. I will also be communicating with the class via the "Portal" (see below). The plan is to use Canvas for assignment instructions, submitting most assignments, viewing peer team work, sharing resources, and viewing grades. (The "Grades" part of your Course Navigation menu will be activated at a later date, once the first graded assignment is posted.)
If you have not used Canvas before or have difficulties navigating it, I encourage you to take the online Canvas Orientation in our course module. There are also helpful Canvas resources for students; just select the "Help" icon at the bottom of the blue vertical menu to the left of your Canvas screen.
Course Communication
Class messages can appear in three places: 1) this Canvas website, 2) the announcements section of your "myCubby" (via SRJC's Portal), and 3) your personal email. Please make it a habit to check all three on a daily basis so you don't miss something important. Helpful Tip: Occasionally, emails sent from SRJC end up in a student's Spam/Junk mailbox by accident; check those and if you notice that my emails are ending up there, try to change your email settings so that they go to your regular inbox.
Instructor to Whole Class: I'll post general course announcements on the “Instructor Announcements” page in Canvas, as well as sending them using the SRJC Portal's email system (myCubby) throughout the semester. Canvas notifies students according to their preferred Notification Preferences as soon as the instructor creates an Announcement.
Instructor to Individual Student(s): When sending individual messages to students, I may use Canvas, the Portal, or send an email from my JC email (ldowning@santarosa.edu) directly to your email address.
Student to Instructor: You can send me a message via Canvas or email me directly at ldowning@santarosa.edu. I do not release my cell phone to students except in urgent situations, so you do not currently have the ability to text me. I can also receive phone messages if you call my SRJC number, 527-4420, even if I'm not in the office when you call. Just leave a message.
Q & A Forum: The “Q&A Forum” is a handy feature on Canvas where you can ask for assistance of your classmates or of instructor. It's not meant for sensitive or really time-sensitive questions though.
Textbook
Barton, Robert. Acting: Onstage and Off. SEVENTH edition. ISBN - 9781305077447
If you already have a copy of the 6th edition of the entire textbook (also used in THAR 10A, our introductory class), that's okay; we'll make it work for you this semester.
The SRJC Bookstore has the complete textbook available for a digital subscription (rental) for the semester. Although you can also purchase a new or used hard copy or digital copy of the textbook through the bookstore, the digital subscription (rental) is the most economical option...by far! Cheap used copies can also be found online, but make sure to order yours ASAP if you go that route.
Some additional textbook tips:
• Please note that the 120-day rental begins the day you start your subscription. The fall semester is approx. 122 days and the spring semester is approx. 129 days long (due to Spring Break). Regardless, you should still be okay because we don't use the textbook in the last two weeks of the semester.
• You can locate and order textbooks online via the SRJC Bookstore. Note that if you want to pick your books up in Petaluma, you need to order them from the Petaluma Bookstore website.
Recommended Technology and Suggested Software/Apps
Your Main Device: Although our class is held in person this semester, you may occasionally wish to use Zoom for office hours, instructor coaching, or running lines with your scene partner(s). In those cases, you will need to load the Zoom app onto your device, using a device with a camera and microphone (built-in or external).
In addition, you'll occasionally need to view a script or other document when you are doing an exercise so I recommend having access to a second device if you can (such as a tablet or smartphone). If you do not have access to a second device, don't worry.
One solution: SRJC library has an inventory of laptops and tablets (as well as hotspots, if you have internet accessibility issues) available for student check-out. Visit that page on the SRJC Libraries website if you think you'll need to take advantage of this service. Finally, if you use a headset, I recommend having a long enough cord so that you can stand up at least 4' from your camera and move around easily in front of your camera.
Recommended-Access to Printer: In order to easily access course materials during the semester, I recommend that you have access to a printer. If you do not have a printer, don't worry. Just let me know on your course Questionnaire (you'll receive that on the first day) so that I can make arrangements to get hard copies to you, in that situation.
Suggested-Access to Scanner: While this is not essential, having access to a scanner can make submitting some assignments a bit easier. If you don't have one, don't worry. Photographing or scanning a document with your cell phone and sending the photos to me will work too.
Suggested Software and Apps: You might need the following software for this course at some point. If you don't have one, don't worry; these are just suggestions. If there are other software or apps that we find would be useful this semester for the class, I'll update this part of the syllabus and let you know. (Suggestions from students are also welcome!)
Important Dates
Day Class Begins: Tuesday, August 17, 2021
Last Regular Class Meeting: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2021
FINAL: 1:00-3:45, Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021
College-Wide Dates for Full Semester Classes
Last Day to Add without instructor's approval: Aug. 22, 2021
Last Day to Add with instructor's approval: Sept. 5, 2021
Last Day to Drop a Semester-Length Class and be eligible for a refund: Aug. 29, 2021
Last Day to Drop without a 'W' symbol: Sept. 5, 2021
Last Day to Drop with a 'W' symbol: Nov. 14, 2021
Last Day to Opt for Pass/No Pass: Note: This class cannot be taken P/NP.
Dropping the Class
If you decide to discontinue this course (although I hope you won't!), it is your responsibility to officially drop it to avoid getting no refund (after 10% of course length), a W symbol (after 20%), or a grade (after 60%).
Attendance
Make it your goal to show up on time AND ready to work for every class meeting. Acting is a collaborative art form and your daily participation is crucial to your learning experience, as well as those of your fellow actors. In other words, your regular attendance and active participation benefits everyone!
- Attendance in Uncertain Times: We are all facing stressful and uncertain conditions this year due to Covid-19, as well as other challenging events. If you are unable to attend class temporarily due to situations like these, please contact me right away and I will accommodate your absence(s) as best I can. All I ask is that you only use this option when you really need it.
- Unexcused Absences: Other than special situations like those above, three (3) unexcused absences will result in your course grade dropping one full grade; four (4) absences will result in you being dropped from the course. Three late/unprepared arrivals will equal one absence.
- Missing Rehearsals & Late Assignments: With the exception of an excused absence, failure to attend any scheduled in-class rehearsal, coaching session, or performance may result in a points penalty equivalent to a reduction of up to two letter grades for that assignment. (Normally, excused absences need to be supported by a written/signed document on letterhead with contact information from a doctor, court official, employer, or other authority; if extenuating circumstances prevent a student from providing such documentation, we will operate on the honor system.)
- Any anticipated absences for the semester (ACTF, team/class events, long commutes, or personal responsibilities) must be discussed with me within the first two weeks of the course. Unless it’s an emergency, please don’t schedule work, or make travel plans or personal appointments (counseling, doctor appt., etc.) during class time. This class is filled with partnered exercises and assignments; therefore, any absence can negatively impact the whole class.
Late Policy
Unless posted other, all assignments are due at the start of class on the due date. A late submission will receive a 10%-20% penalty, depending on the assignment. Submissions more than one week late are not accepted without prior arrangement. Late work will not be graded unless student sends instructor an email with URL for late work.
Performance Assignments
Over the course of the semester, you will complete the following performance assignments:
- Classmate Portrayal: This solo performance focuses on a detailed study of physical and vocal characterization techniques, as well as your ability to set aside your own patterns and habits.
- Open Scene: With a partner, you'll be applying techniques for richer, more dynamic moment-to-moment acting in the creation of an original scene developed using a generic script.
- Class Play Scene: Using a published play selected specifically for your class, everyone will be introduced to script analysis and acting research techniques while preparing partnered scenes from the play. As an exciting learning exercise, you'll also participate in a scripted improvisation exercise called Splash!
- Risk Scene: Just as this final scene's title implies, you'll work on a character/script that is selected to particularly challenge you and your partner(s), pushing to take greater risks with your acting.
- Contrasting Monologue Package: Your final for this class will be the performance of two contrasting monologues that you select to showcase your acting skills. Commonly used for transfer school auditions and professional auditions, this assignment will also help prepare you for future projects.
Other Assignments
- Complete written packets for each performance assignment (includes scoring, research, and analysis assignments designed to help your performance work).
- Complete 4-7 quiz worksheets on your assigned reading and 1-3 research worksheets.
- Complete one exam on the semester's terms, concepts and techniques.
- Prepare an Acting Resume. (This assignment is done in 2-3 steps.)
- Maintain daily/weekly notes on class subject matter in your notebook (actor's journal).
- Class Binder: You are encouraged to retain all class materials for future reference in a designated binder.
Grading Policy
Since this is only my second semester using Canvas, it may take me awhile to post grades and comments on the online Canvas grade book. If you have any questions about your grade in the class at any time during the semester, please contact me and we will discuss your progress.
Grades will be assigned as follows
90%-100% (540-600 pts.) = A; 80%-89% (480-539 pts.) = B; 70%-79% (420-479 pts.) = C; 60%-69% (360-419 pts.) = D
Standards of Conduct
Students who register in SRJC classes are required to abide by the SRJC Student Conduct Standards. Violation of the Standards is basis for referral to the Vice President of Student Services or dismissal from class or from the College. See the Student Code of Conduct page.
Collaborating on or copying of tests or homework in whole or in part will be considered an act of academic dishonesty and result in a grade of 0 for that test or assignment. I encourage students to share information and ideas, but not their work. See these links on Plagiarism:
SRJC Writing Center Lessons on avoiding plagiarism
SRJC's policy on Academic Integrity
Other Important Policies and Practices
Avoid Plagiarism Like the, er, Plague: Although most students have likely heard about plagiarism during their years of schooling, it still is prevalent-even in higher education. The video below reviews what plagiarism is and how not to do it.
Netiquette, or Why Is It Harder to Be Polite Online?
Netiquette refers to using common courtesy in online communication. All members of the class are expected to follow netiquette in all course communications. Use these guidelines:
- Use capital letters sparingly. THEY LOOK LIKE SHOUTING.
- Forward emails only with a writer's permission.
- Be considerate of others' feelings and use language carefully.
- Cite all quotations, references, and sources (otherwise, it is plagiarism).
- Use humor carefully. It is hard to "read" tone; sometimes humor can be misread as criticism or personal attack. Feel free to use emojis or emoticons (like typing :) for a smiley face) to let others know you are being humorous.
- Use complete sentences and standard English grammar to compose posts. Write in proper paragraphs. Review work before submitting it.
- Text speak, such as "ur" for "your" or "ru" for "are you" etc., is only acceptable when texting.
Special Needs
Students with disabilities who believe they need accommodations in this class are encouraged to contact Disability Resources (527-4278), as soon as possible to better ensure such accommodations are implemented in a timely fashion.
Title IX: Confidentiality and Responsible Employee Statement
Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) Theatre Arts are committed to helping create a safe and open learning environment for all students. In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, SRJC prohibits unlawful sexual harassment against any participant in its education programs or activities. This prohibition applies to all students, SRJC employees, and visitors to campus. If you (or someone you know) have experienced any form of sexual harassment, including sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, know that help and support are available. The College strongly encourages all members of the community to take action, seek support and report incidents of sexual harassment to the Title IX Coordinator, Stephanie Jarrett at sjarrett@santarosa.edu or 707-527-4822. Reports may also be filed online.
If you wish to speak to a confidential employee, you can contact Student Psychological Services (Santa Rosa Campus 707-524-1595/ Petaluma Campus 707-778-3919). For more information about reporting options and resources at Santa Rosa Junior College and the community, please visit https://titleix.santarosa.edu/.
About this Syllabus Summary: As I continue to transition my course materials to Canvas this semester, I will be making additions or adjustments to this page. You will be notified whenever that happens.