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Topic title: DNA script – Dennis Kelly

Year group: 9

When taught: September – December.

What are we learning?

This term we will be focusing on the play ‘DNA’ by Dennis Kelly. The play offers many opportunities for students to explore characters, techniques and discuss issues and themes, such as stereotypes gangs, bullying and responsibility. The students will also be introduced to the practitioner Stanislavski and will explore his techniques of ‘becoming a character’ as we work through the play.

Why is this important to know?

DNA offers a more GCSE focus exploring the role of director, actor and designer.

The play will challenge students to discuss the themes involved and question themselves in that position. Students will also learn about Stanislavski an important practitioner that will enhance their skills in developing a character using appropriate voice and movement.

Where does this link into our past and future learning?

DNA will offer a solid foundation for the work in Year 9 which is more focused towards the GCSE syllabus. This will provide script work, discussion on key themes, understanding of the role of a practitioner and the different stage spaces used in theatre.

How will we be assessed on this topic?

Students will be assessed through practical and written work at the end of the scheme of work focusing on characterisation, performance skills and practitioner work.

  • Characterisation- voice, movement, gesture, body language
  • Practitioner Skills- Emotional memory, objectives and motivation, naturalistic style
  • Written exploration of DNA (characters, themes, and context of the play) and Stanislavski’s method.

What makes a strong piece of work in this topic? What are teachers hoping to see?

Students will be expected to perform in front of the class and demonstrate their understanding of the play, characters and techniques of the practitioner.

What key words are there in this topic?

  • Emotional memory
  • Objectives and motivations
  • Naturalism
  • Characterisation
  • Relationship

What can I try if I want to stretch and challenge myself on this topic?

  • Nominate yourself to be a director for a group, to support your ideas and to have a focus for the work.

What wider reading can be done on this topic?

  • Read another play by Dennis Kelly.
  • Research Stanislavski and his techniques.

Supporting document

  • Watch clips of the themes of DNA – Bitesize, click here.
  • Watch clips of characters from DNA – bitesize – click here.

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