Arts - Performing

There are no compulsory studies in this learning area. All studies are electives.

However as stated in the Guidelines for Course selection, at least one unit must be selected from The Arts at year 9. 

The Arts - Performing includes Dance, Drama and Music.

Dance Styles & Choreography 

Aim

Students will participate in technique classes and be introduced to a range of different dance styles in this subject. This class will cater for those students who have previous dance experience as well as for those who have never had formal dance classes. 

Content

• Participate in practical dance sessions, which will incorporate a variety of styles and techniques
• Participate in both whole class and small group dances 
• Participate in improvisation classes 
• Learn safe dance techniques and the importance of warm ups and cool downs 
• Learn about the dance making processes 
• Choreograph small group dances 
• Research a dance style

Students will be assessed on their individual dance technique, the ability to choreograph a creative small group work and a research assignment on a chosen dance style.

BYOD Students electing to study VCD will be required to use a laptop, not an iPad. Students who will not have a laptop in Year 9 may still elect to study VCD but will need to contact the school at the time of choosing electives to discuss any support required.

Assessment

Students will be expected to complete a drama folio. A performance analysis may also be required. Students will participate in all classroom activities. 

Drama Script & Performance 

Aim

Students will develop skills in acting, blocking and designing for theatre by performing a play in the Malthouse Theatre ‘Suitcase Series’ program. They will also develop the ability to evaluate how the elements of drama and performance styles are used to communicate meaning by analysing a professional performance. 

Content

Students will collaborate to develop, design and perform in a play at the Malthouse Theatre. On performance day the students will present their work and have the opportunity to see how the same script was interpreted by students from different schools. Students will explore methods of evaluating theatre and will apply these skills when writing an analysis on a professional performance.

Students will choose a production design area to work in. Some rehearsals may be held out of class time.

Assessment

Students will be assessed on their contribution to the class performance as actors and designers. They will also write an analysis of a professional performance. 

Music: Mainstage

Aim

Have you ever been to an inspiring concert? How is it that these amazing events take place? The lighting, the sound, the staging, the promotion, the performers: we want you to feel some of this magic. This elective will allow you to participate in the ultimate creation of a public concert. 

What if I’m not a confident performer? You may not be comfortable being a performer, but you may relish the opportunity to contribute to the sound production or stage management or the lighting. 

It is going to be different to Y7 and 8 music. You will take some of the fundamentals from year 7 and 8 music and work towards creating live performances on a larger scale.

Content

This elective includes the following:

• Creating engaging musical performances
• Sound production
• Stage management
• Event management
• Promotion and publicity
• Technical aspects of performances

Assessment

Students will be assessed on their contributions towards live musical performances in their chosen field. They will also complete short assessment tasks related to the content of the unit.