Master Course Outlines | Bucks County Community College

COMT101 Introduction to Theater

3 credits

2250

None

There is a required text and play scripts as assigned. Students will be required to watch or read or attend at least three play/theater performances during the course term.

This course meets the General Education requirement for Arts/Humanities.

Students in this course read, watch, discuss, and analyze historical and contemporary plays. Students examine aesthetic concerns of audience, playwright, performers, director, and designers.

Course Learning Goals

Students will:
1. demonstrate an understanding of the art of theater from a cultural, historical, social, and aesthetic perspective [Arts/Humanities];
2. dramatize out the roles and responsibilities of those involved in the theater experience;
3. research theater topics; and
4. critique a production: the play, the intent, the performances, the direction, and the design.
Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
1. Introduction to the art of theater
2. Role of the audience
3. Role of the performers and director
4. The playwright
5. Dramatic structure
6. Designers: lighting, sound, costume, set
7. Major theatrical forms and movements
8. Historical/Classical drama
Course should also include the following:
1. Lectures, discussions, exercises, constructive criticism of plays and productions
2. Textbook reading assignments, library research workshops, instructional videos
3. Attendance of at least three live performances, followed by written critique of production
4. Tests: quizzes, mid-term, final examination
5. In class analysis of at least three plays. Plays can be text or video.
  Instructor will include a play from three of the following categories: (1) Classical Greek/Roman, (2) Medieval, (3) Renaissance/Shakespeare, (4) Neoclassic, (5) Melodrama, (6) Global Culture, (7) Twentieth Century, (8) Musical, (9) International, Ethnic, Minority. At least one play must provide an opportunity to explore a facet of American culture.
6. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
  Student assessment is based on reading of play scripts and class discussions, essay exams, and at least one paper based on a theater initiative.
7. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
  1. See course syllabus.
  2. At least one play script identifying international, gender, and/or minority perspectives is required. Further supplements may include, but are not limited to:

Courses + Programs

COMT101 Introduction to Theater

Department of Arts and Communication: Performance Arts

Course Learning Goals

Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities

Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals

Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student: