Class Overview
This high school Theatre class is crafted to ignite passion for the stage while building essential skills for lifelong creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. Students will dive deep into the art of performance through exploration of diverse acting styles, the rich history of theatre, solo monologues, two-person scenes, and the creation and presentation of short plays.
Learning extends far beyond scripts and lines. The course emphasizes highly active, hands-on experiences: improvisation games, movement and voice exercises, ensemble-building activities, scene workshops, character development drills, and frequent performance opportunities both in class and for small audiences. Students will engage in weekly creative warm-ups, peer feedback sessions, and collaborative projects that foster confidence, empathy, and artistic risk-taking.
While occasional reflections, script analyses, and quizzes help sharpen critical thinking and prepare for advanced study, assessment remains light and supportive—often through group games, showcase reflections, or portfolio-style check-ins rather than high-stakes testing. The heartbeat of this class is exploration: discovering how stories come alive through the body, voice, imagination, and community.
Above all, my hope is that students not only grow as performers and storytellers but also develop a profound appreciation for the power of theatre to reflect human experience, reveal truth, and point toward the beauty and complexity of God’s design in creativity, relationship, and redemption.
Coursework + Coursework at Home (Homework):
Ethos Academy’s hybrid model means students complete weekly coursework at home to complement vibrant in-class instruction. This work is vital for progress and deepens personal ownership of the craft.
· Expect an average of 60–75 minutes per week of at-home work depending on character role and the students aptitude for memorization.
· Some weeks may be lighter (25–40 minutes of script reading or reflection), while others may reach 90 minutes (monologue memorization, scene rehearsal, or short research tasks).
· Assignments will be posted on the Ethos LMS and any written assignments will be posted and graded there.
Understanding the Curriculum
The course moves from foundational skills to more advanced performance work, mirroring how theatre education builds layer by layer. We begin with core tools (voice, body, imagination) and progress through historical contexts, varied acting approaches, and original creation.
The class is VERY interactive, some students might find the class activities and in class exercises push them out of their comfort zone. Most middle schoolers and high schoolers come with a healthy dose of self consciousness. It’s okay if your student feels awkward at first as we ask them to take some risks in characterizations and body language. Over time students will feel more comfortable as they see their own progress. If your student is not interested in performing in front of an audience, this may not be the class for them.
We will conduct some performances in front of an audience greater than the other students within the class.
All student coursework will be posted on the Ethos LMS system and will assist students to:
· Capture key concepts and vocabulary
· Break down scenes and characters step-by-step
· Reflect on their processes to understand the scripts and characters on a deeper level
Students are encouraged to give their best, remain curious, and trust that not every nuance needs mastery immediately—layered learning means concepts will deepen over time and in future pursuits.
Classroom Supplies
Please bring the following to every class:
· Composition book (for in-class exercises, warm-ups, and notes)
· Loose-leaf notebook paper in a 3-ring binder
· Mechanical pencils with extra lead
· Highlighters and colored pens/pencils (for script marking)
· Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for movement
· Water bottle
· Optional: personal script folder
· Not Optional: A courageous attitude to push past all those awkward fears and take risks
Required Curriculum
· All curriculum will be handed out in class for the individual unit. All lesson material will be posted in the Ethos LMS system.
Payment Information
This one-hour course tuition is $200 per semester, plus a $25 materials fee. The material fee is to cover printing of supplementals and research.
· The materials fee is collected during registration.
· The materials fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Parent Partnership, Student Expectations & Classroom Culture
High school is a pivotal time for developing independence, discipline, and artistic voice. This class supports those qualities while relying on strong parent partnership.
Parent Partnership
Parents are invaluable in encouraging consistent practice, celebrating effort, and maintaining positive dialogue about the creative process. Your support at home by providing rehearsal space, gentle accountability for memorization, and enthusiasm for their discoveries makes a tremendous difference. Parents are always welcome to reach out with questions or insights.
Student Responsibility
To thrive, students commit to:
· Noting all assignments and rehearsal expectations in class
· Completing at-home work thoughtfully and on time
· Coming prepared with all lines memorized and ready to do their best at rehearsals and performances.
· Respecting other classmates by paying attention, offering thoughtful critique, and not talking during other’s performances.
· Checking the Ethos LMS regularly for updates and reminders
If ever there are questions regarding student expectations do not hesitate to reach out.
Classroom Culture & Expectations
I strive to create a culture in my classroom where trying is more important than ‘not being embarrassed’. To do this, I have been intentional in incorporating activities that foster a safe, energetic, and respectful space where risk-taking is the norm. We move, laugh, listen, and create together.
Expectations include:
· Full presence and focus during instruction and scene work
· Respectful, constructive feedback during critiques
· Encouraging ensemble spirit—no side conversations or distractions during active moments
· Embracing “yes, and…” in improvisation and collaboration
By honoring these guidelines, we cultivate an environment where every student can grow boldly, support one another, and experience the joy of live storytelling. Should a student demonstrate an inability to fulfill classroom expectations and participate in creating a constructive culture for all, they will be asked to leave the class that day.
Contact Information
I am deeply honored to journey with you and your student in this creative adventure. Please reach out anytime via text, call, or email with questions, celebrations, or concerns. It is a privilege to help nurture confident, expressive young artists who reflect God’s creativity in their work. I pray this year overflows with discovery, courage, and delight in the power of theatre.
Mrs. Charissa McCune
208-286-8173