VCE Theatre Studies study plan
VCE Theatre Studies · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Map the Units 1-4 areas of study by writing a one-page overview of each unit's key knowledge and skills
Identify and list the production roles and responsibilities for each area of study
Define key terminology for script analysis, production design, and performance (e.g., given circumstances, blocking, staging)
Create a glossary of 20 essential terms with definitions and examples
Your checkpoint
A 2-page unit map and a 20-term glossary with definitions and examples
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Analyze a prescribed script by breaking down its structure, characters, themes, and staging demands
Apply script analysis techniques to identify production requirements for a chosen scene
Compare two different interpretations of the same script (e.g., different settings or directorial concepts)
Write a 300-word rationale for a directorial concept for the chosen scene
Your checkpoint
A script analysis workbook for one scene, including a 300-word directorial concept rationale
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Explain the roles of the director, designer, actor, and production team in realizing a production
Describe the collaborative process from concept to performance
Identify the elements of design (set, costume, lighting, sound, makeup) and their functions
Create a design concept board for a scene, annotating choices for two design areas
Your checkpoint
A design concept board with annotations for set and costume (or lighting/sound) for one scene
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Evaluate a live or recorded production using a structured review framework (acting, direction, design, audience impact)
Compare the production to the script's original intentions and identify directorial choices
Write a 500-word production review with specific evidence
Self-assess the review against VCAA assessment criteria for performance analysis
Your checkpoint
A 500-word production review with a self-assessment checklist
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Develop a concept for a solo or group performance piece based on a script excerpt
Create a rehearsal schedule and document the rehearsal process for two sessions
Apply acting techniques (e.g., objectives, tactics, given circumstances) in a rehearsed scene
Record a 3-minute performance excerpt and annotate it with artistic choices
Your checkpoint
A rehearsal journal with two session plans and a 3-minute recorded performance with annotations
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Analyze the relationship between audience and performance in different theatre styles
Research two theatre styles (e.g., realism, epic theatre) and compare their conventions
Design a workshop activity to explore one style with peers
Write a 400-word comparative analysis of the two styles
Your checkpoint
A comparative analysis essay (400 words) and a workshop activity plan
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Synthesize knowledge from all units to plan a hypothetical production season
Create a production proposal including script selection, design concept, casting, and budget considerations
Justify artistic choices with reference to script analysis and intended audience impact
Present the proposal in a 5-minute pitch format
Your checkpoint
A production proposal document (2 pages) and a 5-minute pitch outline
Units 1-4 areas of study (not enumerated in source)
Review and consolidate all notes, glossary, and analyses into a study portfolio
Practice exam-style questions on script analysis, production roles, and performance evaluation
Complete a timed 60-minute practice response under exam conditions
Reflect on strengths and weaknesses and set goals for further study
Your checkpoint
A consolidated study portfolio and a completed 60-minute practice exam response
Milestones
Week 2: Completed script analysis workbook and 300-word rationale; glossary of 20 terms finalized
Week 4: 500-word production review submitted and self-assessed against VCAA criteria
Week 6: Comparative analysis essay and workshop plan completed; rehearsal journal up to date
Week 8: Study portfolio complete and 60-minute practice exam response submitted for feedback