In this unique devising resource pack, pupils will learn new drama techniques pertaining to the horror genre and subsequently apply these to the creation of their own spooky stories. To fuel their inspiration, we have included various stimuli including five real-life ghost stories, photographs and poetry to act as a starting point for an interesting devised performance.
Exploring spooky stories is engaging for pupils of all ability levels and lets them tap into their creativity and embrace storytelling in a way that’s both bold and engaging. Spooky tales are rich with suspense, atmosphere, and complex emotions, which allow students to experiment with building tension and creating interesting dynamic characters. The resource clearly outlines typical horror character archetypes as a means for pupils to quickly assemble their characters, understand their specific objectives and deliver upon the fundamental requirements of the genre.
Contents Include:
Introduction
The Horror Genre
**Horror Warm-up Games **
The Haunted Mirror
Ghost in the Room
Possessed Puppet
Shadow Chaser
The Haunted Forest
Spooky Stimuli
Mary Celeste Ghost Ship
The Enfield Poltergeist
Amityville House
The “Batsquatch”
The Ancient Ram Inn
Spooky Photographs
Spooky Poem
Creating Spooky Characters
Character Archetypes
Whispering
Physical Transformation
Scriptwriting for Horror
Setting the Scene
Plot Devices
Suspense-Building Techniques
Pauses & Silences
Pace Variation
Frozen Expressions
Disjointed Movements
Studying Frantic Assembly offers pupils a unique insight into innovative, movement-based theatre that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Their work encourages creativity, physical expression, and teamwork, showing students how body language, movement, and collaboration can convey complex emotions and ideas without relying solely on words. Frantic Assembly’s techniques, like chair duets and dynamic transitions, are accessible and adaptable, allowing students of all abilities to engage with physical theatre.
Contents Include: Introduction, Devising Process, Ignition, Famous Productions, Stockholm (2007), Beautiful Burnout (2010), Curious Incident (2012), Things I Know To Be True (2016), Metamorphosis (2023), Frantic Assembly Techniques, Hymns Hands, Counter Balance, Building Blocks, Push Hands, Tug of War, Isolation, Exploring Isolation, Dynamic Transitions, Lifting, Exploring Frantic Lifts, Fluff Picking, The Three Universes, Dangerous Dance, Exploring Dangerous Dance, Chair Duets, Exploring Chair Duets & Key Quotes.
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Studying Complicité offers pupils a unique insight into contemporary theatre and their power to push creative boundaries. The company’s innovative use of physical theatre, multimedia, and storytelling challenges traditional forms and encourages students to think beyond text-based performances, embracing a more holistic approach to theatre-making. Complicité’s collaborative methods teach pupils the importance of ensemble work, improvisation, and collective creativity, showing them how actors, directors, and designers can shape a performance together.
Contents Include: Introduction, Influences, Simon McBurney, Director’s Vision, The Role of the Ensemble, Physical Theatre, The Master & Margarita, The Encounter, Mnemonic, Mask Work, Multimedia, Object Manipulation, Binaural Technology, Metatheatre, Choral Speaking, The Rehearsal Room, Fragmentation, Viewpoints, Sensory Theatre, Simultaneity, Adapting Literature, Storytelling with Props & Fourth Wall.
‘Shakers’ by John Godber & Jane Thornton challenges students to develop a deep understanding of character development and multi-role playing. The actors not only play the waitresses but also a variety of bar patrons, requiring versatility and a nuanced approach to differentiating between multiple characters. This demands a high level of skill in voice modulation, physicality, and emotional range, making it an excellent study for aspiring actors.
Contents Include: (40 pages)
Introduction, John Godber & Jane Thornton, Nightlife in 1985 & Sexism in 1985
Character Analysis - Carol, Adele, Nicky & Mel
Themes - Gender Roles, Social Class, Workplace Dynamics, Self-worth & Friendship
Key Moments with Practical Explorations - Waitress Introductions, Introduction Circles, The Busy Friday Night, Bar Rush, Troublesome Customer, Forum Theatre, Closing Time & Reflections.
Performance Techniques - Episodic Structure, Multi-Role, Physical Theatre, Minimalism, Direct Address, Rapid Transitions, Vocal Variety & Improvisation.
Lesson Plans/Activities - Multi-Role Exploration, Customer Improvisation, Quick Character Switch, Impromptu Monologues & Silent Scene Improvisation.
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This is a digital high-quality copy of our Bertolt Brecht poster. Your purchase permits you to print your own copies for pupils as an excellent revision tool.
High-quality prints are available order in sizes A4, A3 and A2. Please contact info@subjectresources.com if you would like to place an order.
This is a digital high-quality copy of our Stanislavski poster. Your purchase permits you to print your own copies for pupils as an excellent revision tool.
Learning stage combat is essential for pupils as it enhances their performance skills, fosters teamwork, and ensures safety during theatrical productions. This resource is designed to assist teachers in effectively teaching stage combat basics, offering clear instructions to guide pupils through various combat routines. It includes a comprehensive lesson plan and script excerpts for context and practical application. By following this structured approach, teachers can ensure pupils gain confidence and proficiency in executing stage combat, enriching their theatrical experience.
**Contents Include: **Introduction, Safety Guidelines, Basic Principles, Warm-up Exercises, Dynamic Stretching Routine, Cardiovascular Warm-up, Strength & Balance Drills, Eye Contact, Falls & Rolls, The Knap, Punches & Kicks, Grappling Techniques, Hair Pull, Armed Combat, Stances, Sword Fighting Basics, Storytelling Through Combat, Using the Environment, Partner Exercises, Acting Through Combat, Combat Rehearsal Techniques, Combat Case Studies, Lesson Plan - Staging the Fight Scene from Romeo & Juliet, Script Excerpts, Key Quotes & Terminology List.
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Dive deep into the fascinating world of social psychology with our comprehensive Social Influence Resource Pack. Designed for educators, students, and enthusiasts of psychology, this resource pack provides an extensive exploration of the mechanisms and effects of social influence, including conformity, obedience, and resistance. Each section is thoughtfully crafted to enhance understanding and encourage critical analysis of how social forces shape individual and group behaviour.
Suitable for all Psychology exam boards.
**Contents Include: **What is Social Influence?, Types of Conformity, Internalisation, Identification, Compliance, Conformity Explanation, Informational Social Influence, Normative Social Influence, Variables Affecting Conformity, Asch’s Conformity Experiment, Social Roles - Zimbardo, Agentic State Theory, Legitimacy of Authority, Situational Variables Affecting Obedience, Milgram’s Obedience Study, The Authoritarian Personality, Resistance to Social Influence, Minority Influence, Social Change.
Studying Jacques Lecoq’s methods provides drama students with a comprehensive approach to physical theatre that emphasizes body movement and expressive potential. Lecoq’s teachings encourage creativity and improvisation, essential for developing a unique artistic voice. His focus on physical expression helps actors become more versatile and dynamic, capable of conveying complex emotions and stories through their bodies alone.
**Contents Include: **Biography, Influences, École Internationale, Neutral Mask, Le Jeu, Elements & Materials, Larval Masks, Character Masks, Seven Levels of Tension, Dynamics of Movement, Mime, Movement Analysis, Chorus, Space & Tempo, Clowning, Animal Study, Animal Study - Exploration, Collective Creation, Expression & Key Quotes.
The 30x PE Ball Games Resource Pack is an innovative and comprehensive collection explicitly designed for Physical Education teachers looking to invigorate their curriculum with various dynamic and engaging ball games. Tailored to suit students of all ages, this pack contains detailed instructions, objectives, and necessary equipment lists for thirty unique games beyond traditional sports, encouraging creativity, teamwork, and physical fitness.
**Original Games Include: **Galaxy Ball Battle, Zombie Dodgeball, Aqua Orb Relay, Meteor Shower, Ultimate Space Ball, Duel at Dawn, Cosmic Collision, Hop Galaxy, Tumbleweed Toss, Blackbeard’s Bounty, Mission: Moon Escape, Neon Night Volley, Quicksand Quandary, Echo Locator, Wizard’s Duel, Sky Castle Siege, Druid’s Grove, Pirate’s Plunder, Volcano Escape, Jungle Expedition, Cyber Dash, Echo Sphere, Galactic Rollers, Temporal Time Warp, Shadow Dancers, Quidditch, Cloud Collectors, Spectral Spirit, Chrono Quest.
Key Features:
30 Unique Ball Games: Each game has been carefully crafted to ensure maximum engagement and enjoyment. From the strategic manoeuvres of “Quantum Leap” to the adventurous spirit of “Pirate’s Plunder,” there’s something for every interest and skill level.
Easy-to-Follow Guides: Every game includes step-by-step instructions, clear objectives, and suggested variations to accommodate different class sizes, skill levels, and environments.
Inclusive Design: Games are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, ensuring students of all abilities can participate and thrive.
Educational Benefits: These games promote critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and social skills in addition to physical activity.
Equipment Lists: Comprehensive lists of required equipment for each game, with suggestions for everyday classroom items that can serve as substitutes, ensuring teachers can easily prepare without needing specialised gear.
Printable Resources: The digital PDF resource can be printed for handouts or a personal copy while teaching outside.
Digital Access: You can easily display this resource on electronic SmartBoards or store it on your computer as an accessible PDF file.
Brecht’s techniques and theories offer a unique approach to theatre that inspires critical thinking and social awareness. By learning about Brecht’s methods, such as the Verfremdungseffekt (alienation effect), actors gain tools for creating performances that encourage audiences to engage intellectually with the play rather than merely emotionally. This approach challenges actors to consider their role not just as entertainers but as facilitators of dialogue and thought about societal issues. Additionally, Brecht’s emphasis on non-naturalistic performance techniques broadens an actor’s range and versatility, allowing them to explore various theatrical styles beyond conventional realism. This resource explores how to teach some of Brecht’s most iconic techniques and enables your actors to create their own Brechtian-inspired practical work.
Contents Include
German Theatre, The Young Brecht, World War I, The Everyman, Brecht’s Inspiration, The Berliner Ensemble, Epic Theatre, Marxism, The Communist Manifesto, Verfremdungseffekt, Teaching Gestus, Mother Courage, War & Society, Exploring Mother Courage, Exploring Placards, Teaching Spass, Exploring Spass, Lehrstücke & ‘The Last Drop’ Lehrstücke.
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The “Teaching Steven Berkoff Resource Pack” is an invaluable compilation designed to assist educators in introducing the dynamic and influential work of Steven Berkoff to their students. This comprehensive resource pack includes various materials ranging from lesson ideas to workshop outlines and interactive exercises. Each component is crafted to elucidate Berkoff’s unique theatrical style—including his pioneering use of physical theatre, mime, the grotesque, and his narrative explorations through expressive movement—and engage students in practical, hands-on learning experiences.
Contents Include: 1950s UK Theatre, The Young Berkoff, Webber Douglas Academy, Kitchen Sink Drama, Introducing Total Theatre, Exploring Total Theatre, Levels of Exaggeration, Teaching Mime, Exploring Mime, The Grotesque, Metamorphosis (Case study), Exploring Kvetch, Essence Machine (Berkoff’s Coffee Shop), Mie, Burdens (Practical exercise), Jo-Ha-Kyu & Principle Terms Glossary.
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Exploring improvisation offers many invaluable skills and benefits. It serves as a playground where spontaneity, creativity, and adaptability thrive, allowing actors to hone their craft in a dynamic and immersive way. Improv enhances the ability to think on one’s feet, fostering quick thinking and the capacity to embrace unexpected challenges with confidence. It nurtures the art of active listening, collaboration, and the courage to take risks, amplifying an actor’s versatility and depth in portraying characters.
In this resource pack, we take a closer look at some key techniques and exercises to develop your actors in the classroom.
Contents Include
Why Improvise?, Spontaneity, Listening, Creativity, Adaptability, Teamwork, Emotional Agility, Storytelling, Blocking, Breaking Character, Physicality, Improvisation Exercises, Word-at-a-time, “Yes, And…”, Props Relay, Genre Switch, Character Walk, Story Circle, Freeze Tag, Press Conference, The Expert, Lesson Plan & Key Quotes.
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Uta Hagen was a pioneering figure in the acting world, and her insights have had a profound impact on the craft. Her emphasis on deep character exploration, authenticity, and using exercises like the Object Exercise helps actors develop a richer, more nuanced understanding of their characters. By studying Hagen’s techniques, students can improve their acting skills, better connect with the emotions and motivations of their characters, and ultimately deliver more compelling and genuine performances on stage or screen. Her teachings remain highly relevant and valuable for aspiring actors looking to hone their craft.
Contents Include: Biography, Substitution, Given Circumstances, Object Exercise, Emotional Preparation, Concentration, Relaxation, Moment Before, Sense Memory, Through-line of Action, Listening, Key Quotes & Lesson Plan.
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This resource pack provides practitioner techniques specifically to help pupils explore character development. The resource offers a starting point from which they can delve deeper into new ideas and methods through wider reading.
Exploring character development techniques and enhancing awareness of ideas nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as students navigate the nuances of character relationships, conflicts, and transformations. Ultimately, this exploration empowers drama pupils to become more proficient actors and storytellers, enabling them to communicate and connect with audiences on a more profound level.
Contents Include:
Stanislavski���s Method, Michael Chekhov’s “Psychological Gesture”, Augusto Boal’s “Theatre of the Oppressed”, Anne Bogart’s “Viewpoints”, Jerzy Grotowski’s “Physical Actions”, Jacques Lecoq’s “Corporeal Mime”, Uta Hagen’s “Object Exercises”, Meisner’s “Repetition”, Suzuki Method, Laban Movement Analysis, Jerzy Grotowski’s “Ritual & Poor Theatre”, Brecht’s “Alienation Effect”, Brecht-Weill’s “Song & Music”, Antonin Artaud’s “Theatre of Cruelty”, Peter Brook’s “Empty Space”, Linklater Technique, Fitzmaurice Voicework, Patsy Rodenburg’s “Speaking Shakespeare”, Cicely Berry’s “Vocal Method” & Key Quotes.
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This pack provides an exciting opportunity for your students to take a step into the world of acting for camera in your classroom. The class is tasked with creating their very own theatrical movie trailer for a brand new Hollywood blockbuster. In groups, they will analyse two popular trailers (Top Gun Maverick - Action and Man vs. Bee - Comedy) to learn the techniques professional editors use to engage their target audiences. The teacher can decide whether to have the class produce a staged version or use their phones/camera equipment to produce their trailers. The pack contains useful strategies for both options. Pupils will obtain an awareness of fundamental shooting techniques and additional extension tasks to scaffold learning within and beyond the classroom.
Contents include:
Introduction, Top Gun Maverick (Action), Man vs. Bee (Comedy), Task Objectives (Staged or Recorded), Explorative Strategies, Creating a Storyboard, Epic vs. Domestic, Pace & Tension, Juxtaposition, Cross-cutting, Flashback, Narration, Soundscape, Learning About Cinematography, iMovie Recording Tips, Close-up, Extreme Close-up, Medium Shot, Long/Wide Shot, Extreme Long/Wide Shot, Angle Shots, High-Angle, Low-Angle, Over the Shoulder, Bird’s Eye, Dutch Angle/Tilt, Extension Tasks, Hey, Producer!, A Night at the Oscars & UK & International Student Film Festivals.
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Studying comedy is valuable for drama students to enhance their acting skills. Comedy teaches students timing, improvisation, and nuanced delivery, contributing to versatile performances. Understanding comedic techniques helps actors connect with audiences through humour, develop precise physicality, and master the subtleties of expression. By delving into the world of comedy, drama students expand their range and gain insights that enrich their overall acting prowess, enabling them to engage audiences with laughter and emotion.
Contents Include: Introduction, Types of Comedy, Slapstick, Satire, Farce, Romantic Comedy, Dark Comedy, Absurdist, Parody, Musical Comedy, Comedy Techniques, Timing & Pacing, Exaggeration, Irony & Incongruity, Wordplay, Repetition, Breaking the Fourth Wall, Surprise, Double Entendre, Physical Comedy Exploration, Introduction to Clowning, Mime Mastery, Exaggerated Gesture Showdown, Improvisational Comedy Exploration, One-line Wonders, Delayed Reaction, Comedy Skit Mashup, Comedy Character Development, Physicality & Voice, Exploring Archetypes, Extreme Obsessions, Animal-Inspired Characters, Structuring Your Comedy & Strategies.
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Studying Greek theatre is vital for drama students as it provides a historical and artistic foundation for their craft. By exploring the works of ancient Greek playwrights and understanding the structure, themes, and techniques employed, students gain invaluable insights into character development, plot construction, and the power of ensemble work. Greek theatre serves as a wellspring of inspiration, nurturing creativity and deepening students’ understanding of the theatrical art form they pursue.
Contents Include:
Origins of Greek Theatre, Greek Theatre in Society, Greek Theatre in Modern Times, Greek Tragedies, Oedipus, Medea, The Bacchae, Greek Comedies, Lysistrata, The Frogs, Open-air Theatres, Greek Theatre Dramatic Techniques, Chorus, Dialogue & Monologues, Masks, The Three Unities, Catharsis, Dramatic Irony, Stichomythia, Deus ex Machina, Symbolsim, Physicality & Movement, Satire & Parody.
Greek Theatre Lesson Plans
Lesson 1 - Exploring Greek Theatre: An Introduction
Lesson 2 – Creating your own Greek Theatre piece
Lesson 3 – Exploring Greek Theatre Chorus
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This resource contains 10 outstanding one-off Drama lesson plans. Perfect for setting as cover work or a handy resource in your department if you ever need to teach an unexpected lesson!
Each lesson has been carefully structured to include lesson objectives, suggested lesson materials, starter activities, main activities, plenary, homework and assessment indicators.
Lessons Include:
Lesson 1 - Exploring Comedy
Lesson 2 - Exploring Shakespeare
Lesson 3 - Exploring Physical Theatre (Steven Berkoff)
Lesson 4 - Devising (Creating Original Theatre)
Lesson 5 - Exploring Thought-Tracking
Lesson 6 - Exploring Brecht’s Epic Theatre
Lesson 7 - Discovering Clowning
Lesson 8 - Script Work
Lesson 9 - Lighting & Sound Design
Lesson 10 - Tension States (Jacques Le Coq)
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