Greetings,
The campout was a great success! In fact, it was one of the smoothest running and cooperative outings that we have had. Looking forward to the spring too. Thanks so much to a great group of chaperones, and to all our drivers.
This coming Friday we have a guest speaker for our advising group. Iliana Fontal from Northwest Family Services is coming to show a film and do a presentation on drug and alcohol awareness for teens. I will also be preparing the 6th graders for this workshop in our inquiry class.
We will start book groups in advising this week, and I am continuing to read aloud and discuss Bread Givers by Anzia Yezierska. I will have two groups of 10; one will read To Kill a Mockingbird and the other will read Snow Falling on Cedars. Discsussions and writing reflection will be mandatory as part of a language arts component of advising. Next quarter, 6th inquiry will be through and I will offer a middle school writing course in the scheduled offerings.
In other classes:
Rough drafts due in Once Upon a Time... on Thursday 9/27.
First performances in Sound class on Wednesday 9/26.
Final auditions and cast posting for Little Shop of Horrors on Tuesday 9/25.
PLP/Literacy class final drafts due on Wednesday 9/26.
Make sure to check syllabi for details on grading.
Again, any questions contact me at: kirk@trilliumcharterschool.org
Kirk
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
First Week & Welcome
Hello again. All is well and things are running as smoothly as can be expected in the first two days. I am including some syllabi and the campout letter here. We are also going on the Jet Boats Friday!
I will add more as we go and answer questions too!
Please use the following email to contact me now: kirk@trilliumcharterschool.org
Thanks!
Kirk
Dear Parents and Middle School Students,
We are going camping again! We are going to Milo McIver Park on the lovely Clackamas River. We are going Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning, September 19th – 21st (NOTE: this is the second week of school). It should be great fun since our last several trips there have been such successes.
We need drivers! Our carpools will be loaded and on the way from Trillium around 1:00 Wednesday (please arrive with gear in the common space by 12:00). NOTE: If you come earlier than 11:45 it disturbs the lower school so plan accordingly. We are encouraging the students to have already eaten lunch when they show up at school if they are coming late in the morning. They will be in advising all morning if not, and a snack will be served at the campsite on arrival.
It is about a 45-minute drive depending on traffic. We shall leave for home from Milo McIver by 11:00 am Friday, and you can pick up your students at the usual end-of-school time (12:00 pm). Please decide on whether or not you can chaperone, help with meals and facilitate the cooking, and/or volunteer to drive back and forth. Let your advisor or liaison know as soon as possible
We also will have email sign-up, phone calls, and a list at the front desk and with each advisor. Parent support makes this trip run smoothly. An extra chaperone or two will be greatly appreciated.
As a staff we came up with a list of essentials for each student to bring:
Sleeping bag
Tent (please bring an extra to loan if you have one!)
Flashlight
Rain gear
Sunscreen
2 pairs of pants (shorts optional)
2-3 short sleeve shirts
1 long sleeve shirt
1 jacket (this is important: it is always cold in the morning)
2 pairs of shoes
4 pairs of socks
Reading material
Journal (if you wish)
Frisbee, kite, beach game etc.
1 plastic bag
1 garbage bag
We have been asked about swimming. Our policy is to be advised by the rangers on site. If they feel it is safe and encourage it, we MAY find a suitable place that can be adequately supervised. If there is any doubt about safety we will NOT swim. If you have any personal reservations please let us know, and please do not pack a swimsuit for you student.
It can be very chilly and windy at any time in Oregon, even when the sun is shining beautifully. Be prepared by dressing in layers, and don’t forget a jacket of some sort that will cut the wind factor. It always gets cold at night. Have warm, dry clothes available.
On this trip there will be required group activities led by parent volunteers and staff members after lunch both days (2-4 p.m.), as well as after campfire each night. This might include trips to the river, the surrounding forest, hiking, bacci, Frisbee, touch football, disc golf, jump rope, soccer and more. There will be plenty of time to read, hang out with friends, and have quiet time to oneself. We have experimented with allowing Boffer fencing on more than one campout. IT IS NOT ALLOWED ON THIS TRIP. Please let your students know.
There are some rules of course, and some things to leave behind:
· Your teacher will be organizing the sleeping arrangements in the tents. Once this is done NO ONE may move or change tents. Consider this rule set in stone. Lights out at 10:30 p.m. and this is also the signal for quiet time. If students cannot settle, they will be moved. Boys and girls sleep separately without exception.
· Please DO NOT bring along any electronic devices (this includes Walkmans, CD players, Gameboys, PSPs etc.). We are camping. Feel free to bring an acoustic musical instrument, board games, cards, books, or a song!
· Snacks will be provided so please, NO soda, NO candy, and NO sugary snacks. If you have a student with blood sugar issues, let the staff know.
· The adults will be doing the cooking. There is no need for you to bring matches, knives of any sort (even Swiss Army or Leatherman tools), campfire hatches, or tools of any kind.
· There will be parent chaperones sleeping over and helping with the carpool. Please consider every parent as a staff member of Trillium on this trip and give him or her the attention, gratitude, and respect that they deserve.
NOTE: If you have paid, the beginning of the year activity fee covers the price for the camping trip.
We hope that you and your student will participate in this beginning of the year event. It is a wonderful way to relax and get to know each other. And please let us know, again, if you would like to help in any way. We need support. We look forward to having a great time. Thank you!
Kurt, Tobie, Nick, and Kirk
Course Name
PLP/Literacy Workshop
Subject (Content) Area
Language arts (TBD)
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Daily 2 10:40 – 11:45
Required Materials
Pens, pencils, paper, pocket folder
Prerequisites
PLP designed with advisor/instructor for working independently of the class curriculum. This class is designed for students with a learning plan in place by the add/drop time. Need instructor and advisor approval, especially for MS students.
Course Explanation
First and foremost, students may work off their learning plans in this class with me as a supervising staff member. There will be language arts instruction and assignments for those who are looking for a writing and reading focused class (and who might need extra support). In accordance with the Framework, students will be able to investigate topics of interest and draft individual project plans that will display the results of that study. The academic focus will be on communicating ideas through writing, and reading discussion.
Two “strands” are operating for the 8-week term: personal learning plan work around language arts or social studies focused projects; a reading and writing laboratory.
PLP participants will make their own schedule (with my support) for the entire quarter in the first week of classes.
Other students will cycle through the following options every two weeks eventually doing all four (4).
Short readings in class and discussed as a group. Emphasis based on framework expectations around inference, reading at grade level, note-taking skills, communicating ideas through writing, and reading selections from different sources and comparing content. Participation is required. There will be one reading per day.
Narrative writing. Personal and fictional narrative will be defined, explored, and created by the students. One final piece that has undergone the entire writing process is expected after two weeks.
The critique. Having an opinion is easy, expressing why you have it and then defending it is difficult. We will read opinionated works, analyze them, and craft our own.
Intro to literary analysis. We will read one piece of literature that is/might be considered “great”. As a whole group we will practice the skill of close reading and look for symbolism, metaphor, irony, and allusion. Written reflection is expected.
Course Requirements and Grading
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (5) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 6 = D, 7 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
50% - participation and completion of the four (4) categories of written assignment listed above.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
Course Name
Sound
Subject (Content) Area
Art & performance, language arts
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Monday/Wednesday 12:35 – 3:10
Required Materials
Own instruments and musical accessories if possible (picks, strings, tuners, amps, sheet music/tablature etc.), pocket folder
Prerequisites
For MS need instructor’s approval, ability to work independently, and a background in music. Preferably middle school students need to have taken songwriting or musicology previously and/or have some articulated commitment to learning a musical instrument and demonstrate cooperation and commitment in the add/drop period. For HS need strong interest in music and a willingness to perform in public. Class maximum of 20
Course Explanation
This is a combination of songwriting, musicology, and a new addition to music instruction at Trillium called “rehearsal and performance”. With the addition of a separate music space, students are involved in a more college-like atmosphere of music study.
The class will be divided into daily mini-lessons on theory and practice, lessons and independent work on the social study and impact of music and lyrics, analyzing and writing songs, and finally the rehearsal and performance of three pieces of music per quarter.
The music “Hut” will be checked out and respected by students needing to practice their instruments. Originality is the goal of the performance pieces and the student must write one original song per quarter. The final (or students’ choice) will be videotaped for portfolios. Cooperation and sharing space will be essential.
Course Requirements and Grading
It is essential that full engagement and cooperation happen in this class. Sharing the space and resources respectfully is mandatory – lack of participation in cleaning and properly checking out the Hut will get students uninvited to this class next quarter.
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
40% - Cumulative Average of three performances. One MUST be original. All performances must be done on the due date. Extensions disrupt the flow of the class and create more work for others.
10% - Written response to mini-lessons on musicology and theory & practice. Due date for reflection to be determined mid-way through the quarter.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
TBD – Ethos? PCC? EMP? Concerts in PDX?
Course Name
Once Upon a Time…
Subject (Content) Area
Language arts, art
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Tuesday/Thursday 12:35 – 1:50
Required Materials
Pens, pencils, paper, pocket folder
Prerequisites
None (assumes grade level understanding of texts)
Course Explanation
This is a language arts class (and it is a social studies class depending on the student’s plan). The history and art (history) of storytelling, where the phrase “Once Upon a Time…” came from, and examples of some great and unusual literature will be the theme of the class. Although we will deviate from this talking point and explore more modern interpretations of the narrated story that will include plays, poems, lyrics, and video/film.
Each student will chose historical topics and time periods to support their understanding of the cultural and personal relativism of “good” stories (in whatever media) and literature. For example, one might study the teaching stories of Persia, the morality play of the Elizabethans, the fairy story of western Europe, or the creation stories of indigenous people from around the world.
One will also write and read a lot in this class! One may also work off their PLPs in this class. As far as Framework goals, the main category addressed will be understanding, interpreting, and making connections between wide varieties of literature of varying complexity. Critical thinking and approaching grade level texts is assumed. Writing to display an understanding of inference, symbolism, and improve critical thinking and expression through language.
Course Requirements and Grading
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
50% - Cumulative Average of two (2) projects. Requirements to be determined (i.e. personalized and according to the framework) and will include either an essay on topics and class material or a creative piece(s) designed by the student that obviously begins with “Once upon a time…”A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
To take in the fresh air…
Course Name
Musical Theater
Subject (Content) Area
Art & Performance
Teacher
Kirk Ellis & Yoko Niki-Breyfogle
Time/Day
Tuesday/Thursday 1:55 – 3:15
Required Materials
Brains, and a folder with pockets to hold papers
Prerequisites
None (but auditions for voice and movement will be required for the cast)
Course Explanation
This is a yearlong class/commitment that will be the workshop and rehearsal space for staging Trillium’s 5th annual drama production, Little Shop of Horrors.
The class will need students who are interested in the performance of the 10+ main characters of the musical, extras and walk-on roles (i.e. street denizens, reporters, customers, and crowds), stagehands and crew. Yoko, the show’s musical director, will provide vocal coaching and lessons, leading the cast through rehearsals of the score.
Commitment and cooperation is essential. Your grade is largely dependent on fulfilling the roles and duties assigned to you by the teachers/directors. There will also be a rehearsal and production schedule to help define when lines are due, songs are practiced, sets built, costumes made etc. Staying true to this schedule will be the concrete rubric for passing the class. Some out of class rehearsal time will be necessary later. Performance times will be announced later as well.
This will also be the school’s first musical (after 4 years of dark comedies and one-acts) and student involvement will help decide if theater such ambitious theater as the Rocky Horror Picture Show or Shakespeare can be tackled next year.
Course Requirements and Grading
70% - Attendance, Dedicated Participation (in the form of a rehearsal schedule and fulfilling assigned jobs related to the production), and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
30% - Effort, behavior, and respectful participation in all final rehearsals and performance dates.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
?
I will add more as we go and answer questions too!
Please use the following email to contact me now: kirk@trilliumcharterschool.org
Thanks!
Kirk
Dear Parents and Middle School Students,
We are going camping again! We are going to Milo McIver Park on the lovely Clackamas River. We are going Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning, September 19th – 21st (NOTE: this is the second week of school). It should be great fun since our last several trips there have been such successes.
We need drivers! Our carpools will be loaded and on the way from Trillium around 1:00 Wednesday (please arrive with gear in the common space by 12:00). NOTE: If you come earlier than 11:45 it disturbs the lower school so plan accordingly. We are encouraging the students to have already eaten lunch when they show up at school if they are coming late in the morning. They will be in advising all morning if not, and a snack will be served at the campsite on arrival.
It is about a 45-minute drive depending on traffic. We shall leave for home from Milo McIver by 11:00 am Friday, and you can pick up your students at the usual end-of-school time (12:00 pm). Please decide on whether or not you can chaperone, help with meals and facilitate the cooking, and/or volunteer to drive back and forth. Let your advisor or liaison know as soon as possible
We also will have email sign-up, phone calls, and a list at the front desk and with each advisor. Parent support makes this trip run smoothly. An extra chaperone or two will be greatly appreciated.
As a staff we came up with a list of essentials for each student to bring:
Sleeping bag
Tent (please bring an extra to loan if you have one!)
Flashlight
Rain gear
Sunscreen
2 pairs of pants (shorts optional)
2-3 short sleeve shirts
1 long sleeve shirt
1 jacket (this is important: it is always cold in the morning)
2 pairs of shoes
4 pairs of socks
Reading material
Journal (if you wish)
Frisbee, kite, beach game etc.
1 plastic bag
1 garbage bag
We have been asked about swimming. Our policy is to be advised by the rangers on site. If they feel it is safe and encourage it, we MAY find a suitable place that can be adequately supervised. If there is any doubt about safety we will NOT swim. If you have any personal reservations please let us know, and please do not pack a swimsuit for you student.
It can be very chilly and windy at any time in Oregon, even when the sun is shining beautifully. Be prepared by dressing in layers, and don’t forget a jacket of some sort that will cut the wind factor. It always gets cold at night. Have warm, dry clothes available.
On this trip there will be required group activities led by parent volunteers and staff members after lunch both days (2-4 p.m.), as well as after campfire each night. This might include trips to the river, the surrounding forest, hiking, bacci, Frisbee, touch football, disc golf, jump rope, soccer and more. There will be plenty of time to read, hang out with friends, and have quiet time to oneself. We have experimented with allowing Boffer fencing on more than one campout. IT IS NOT ALLOWED ON THIS TRIP. Please let your students know.
There are some rules of course, and some things to leave behind:
· Your teacher will be organizing the sleeping arrangements in the tents. Once this is done NO ONE may move or change tents. Consider this rule set in stone. Lights out at 10:30 p.m. and this is also the signal for quiet time. If students cannot settle, they will be moved. Boys and girls sleep separately without exception.
· Please DO NOT bring along any electronic devices (this includes Walkmans, CD players, Gameboys, PSPs etc.). We are camping. Feel free to bring an acoustic musical instrument, board games, cards, books, or a song!
· Snacks will be provided so please, NO soda, NO candy, and NO sugary snacks. If you have a student with blood sugar issues, let the staff know.
· The adults will be doing the cooking. There is no need for you to bring matches, knives of any sort (even Swiss Army or Leatherman tools), campfire hatches, or tools of any kind.
· There will be parent chaperones sleeping over and helping with the carpool. Please consider every parent as a staff member of Trillium on this trip and give him or her the attention, gratitude, and respect that they deserve.
NOTE: If you have paid, the beginning of the year activity fee covers the price for the camping trip.
We hope that you and your student will participate in this beginning of the year event. It is a wonderful way to relax and get to know each other. And please let us know, again, if you would like to help in any way. We need support. We look forward to having a great time. Thank you!
Kurt, Tobie, Nick, and Kirk
Course Name
PLP/Literacy Workshop
Subject (Content) Area
Language arts (TBD)
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Daily 2 10:40 – 11:45
Required Materials
Pens, pencils, paper, pocket folder
Prerequisites
PLP designed with advisor/instructor for working independently of the class curriculum. This class is designed for students with a learning plan in place by the add/drop time. Need instructor and advisor approval, especially for MS students.
Course Explanation
First and foremost, students may work off their learning plans in this class with me as a supervising staff member. There will be language arts instruction and assignments for those who are looking for a writing and reading focused class (and who might need extra support). In accordance with the Framework, students will be able to investigate topics of interest and draft individual project plans that will display the results of that study. The academic focus will be on communicating ideas through writing, and reading discussion.
Two “strands” are operating for the 8-week term: personal learning plan work around language arts or social studies focused projects; a reading and writing laboratory.
PLP participants will make their own schedule (with my support) for the entire quarter in the first week of classes.
Other students will cycle through the following options every two weeks eventually doing all four (4).
Short readings in class and discussed as a group. Emphasis based on framework expectations around inference, reading at grade level, note-taking skills, communicating ideas through writing, and reading selections from different sources and comparing content. Participation is required. There will be one reading per day.
Narrative writing. Personal and fictional narrative will be defined, explored, and created by the students. One final piece that has undergone the entire writing process is expected after two weeks.
The critique. Having an opinion is easy, expressing why you have it and then defending it is difficult. We will read opinionated works, analyze them, and craft our own.
Intro to literary analysis. We will read one piece of literature that is/might be considered “great”. As a whole group we will practice the skill of close reading and look for symbolism, metaphor, irony, and allusion. Written reflection is expected.
Course Requirements and Grading
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (5) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 6 = D, 7 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
50% - participation and completion of the four (4) categories of written assignment listed above.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
Course Name
Sound
Subject (Content) Area
Art & performance, language arts
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Monday/Wednesday 12:35 – 3:10
Required Materials
Own instruments and musical accessories if possible (picks, strings, tuners, amps, sheet music/tablature etc.), pocket folder
Prerequisites
For MS need instructor’s approval, ability to work independently, and a background in music. Preferably middle school students need to have taken songwriting or musicology previously and/or have some articulated commitment to learning a musical instrument and demonstrate cooperation and commitment in the add/drop period. For HS need strong interest in music and a willingness to perform in public. Class maximum of 20
Course Explanation
This is a combination of songwriting, musicology, and a new addition to music instruction at Trillium called “rehearsal and performance”. With the addition of a separate music space, students are involved in a more college-like atmosphere of music study.
The class will be divided into daily mini-lessons on theory and practice, lessons and independent work on the social study and impact of music and lyrics, analyzing and writing songs, and finally the rehearsal and performance of three pieces of music per quarter.
The music “Hut” will be checked out and respected by students needing to practice their instruments. Originality is the goal of the performance pieces and the student must write one original song per quarter. The final (or students’ choice) will be videotaped for portfolios. Cooperation and sharing space will be essential.
Course Requirements and Grading
It is essential that full engagement and cooperation happen in this class. Sharing the space and resources respectfully is mandatory – lack of participation in cleaning and properly checking out the Hut will get students uninvited to this class next quarter.
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
40% - Cumulative Average of three performances. One MUST be original. All performances must be done on the due date. Extensions disrupt the flow of the class and create more work for others.
10% - Written response to mini-lessons on musicology and theory & practice. Due date for reflection to be determined mid-way through the quarter.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
TBD – Ethos? PCC? EMP? Concerts in PDX?
Course Name
Once Upon a Time…
Subject (Content) Area
Language arts, art
Teacher
Kirk Ellis
Time/Day
Tuesday/Thursday 12:35 – 1:50
Required Materials
Pens, pencils, paper, pocket folder
Prerequisites
None (assumes grade level understanding of texts)
Course Explanation
This is a language arts class (and it is a social studies class depending on the student’s plan). The history and art (history) of storytelling, where the phrase “Once Upon a Time…” came from, and examples of some great and unusual literature will be the theme of the class. Although we will deviate from this talking point and explore more modern interpretations of the narrated story that will include plays, poems, lyrics, and video/film.
Each student will chose historical topics and time periods to support their understanding of the cultural and personal relativism of “good” stories (in whatever media) and literature. For example, one might study the teaching stories of Persia, the morality play of the Elizabethans, the fairy story of western Europe, or the creation stories of indigenous people from around the world.
One will also write and read a lot in this class! One may also work off their PLPs in this class. As far as Framework goals, the main category addressed will be understanding, interpreting, and making connections between wide varieties of literature of varying complexity. Critical thinking and approaching grade level texts is assumed. Writing to display an understanding of inference, symbolism, and improve critical thinking and expression through language.
Course Requirements and Grading
50% - Attendance, Participation, and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
50% - Cumulative Average of two (2) projects. Requirements to be determined (i.e. personalized and according to the framework) and will include either an essay on topics and class material or a creative piece(s) designed by the student that obviously begins with “Once upon a time…”A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
To take in the fresh air…
Course Name
Musical Theater
Subject (Content) Area
Art & Performance
Teacher
Kirk Ellis & Yoko Niki-Breyfogle
Time/Day
Tuesday/Thursday 1:55 – 3:15
Required Materials
Brains, and a folder with pockets to hold papers
Prerequisites
None (but auditions for voice and movement will be required for the cast)
Course Explanation
This is a yearlong class/commitment that will be the workshop and rehearsal space for staging Trillium’s 5th annual drama production, Little Shop of Horrors.
The class will need students who are interested in the performance of the 10+ main characters of the musical, extras and walk-on roles (i.e. street denizens, reporters, customers, and crowds), stagehands and crew. Yoko, the show’s musical director, will provide vocal coaching and lessons, leading the cast through rehearsals of the score.
Commitment and cooperation is essential. Your grade is largely dependent on fulfilling the roles and duties assigned to you by the teachers/directors. There will also be a rehearsal and production schedule to help define when lines are due, songs are practiced, sets built, costumes made etc. Staying true to this schedule will be the concrete rubric for passing the class. Some out of class rehearsal time will be necessary later. Performance times will be announced later as well.
This will also be the school’s first musical (after 4 years of dark comedies and one-acts) and student involvement will help decide if theater such ambitious theater as the Rocky Horror Picture Show or Shakespeare can be tackled next year.
Course Requirements and Grading
70% - Attendance, Dedicated Participation (in the form of a rehearsal schedule and fulfilling assigned jobs related to the production), and In-Class work/effort including a tardy and absent policy as follows: Participation is essential. IF a student has three (3) unexcused absences the best grade they can receive is a “C”. For each absence after that they will go down a letter grade e.g. 4 = D, 5 = F. Work must be made up regardless.
Since the class is in the middle of the morning, tardiness will not be tolerated. Three (3) tardies will result in falling one whole letter grade. Five (5) unexcused tardies will result in a failing grade.
30% - Effort, behavior, and respectful participation in all final rehearsals and performance dates.
A-F grades will be given. Narratives will be written for each student.
Lesson Plans (may be attached)
TBA
Field Trips (actual or proposed)
?
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