Coward Punch - Interpreting A Blank Script

Australian curriculum content descriptions: 

Years 9 & 10 Drama:

• Evaluate how the elements of drama, forms and performance styles in devised and scripted drama convey meaning and aesthetic effect (ACADRR052)
• Improvise with the elements of drama and narrative structure to develop ideas, and explore subtext to shape devised and scripted drama (ACADRM047)
• Structure drama to engage an audience through manipulation of dramatic action, forms and performance styles and by using design elements (ACADRM050)

Syllabus outcomes: DRAM5.1.3, DRAM5.1.4, DRAP5.2.3, DRAA5.3.1

General capabilities: Literacy, Critical and Creative Thinking, Personal and Social Capability

Relevant parts of Years 9 & 10 achievement standards: 
Students analyse the elements of drama, forms and performance styles and evaluate meaning and aesthetic effect in drama they devise, interpret, perform and view. Students develop and sustain different roles and characters for given circumstances and intentions. They perform devised and scripted drama in different forms, styles and performance spaces. They collaborate with others to plan, direct, produce, rehearse and refine performances. They select and use the elements of drama, narrative and structure in directing and acting to engage audiences. They refine performance and expressive skills in voice and movement to convey dramatic action.

This lesson is part of the wider unit of work STOP the Coward Punch: Arts – Years 7 to 10

Time required: 70+ mins

Level of teacher scaffolding: A medium level of teacher scaffolding is required in this lesson. The teacher will facilitate class discussion, clarify understanding to do with the blank script exercise and observe groups interacting, encouraging their creativity.

• Blank Script – one copy per student
• Device with internet, audio and projection capabilities

This lesson is designed to build students’ competencies in the following skills:

• Communication
• Creativity
• Empathy
• Problem solving
• Social skills
• Collaboration

These resources have been designed in partnership with Danny Green's STOP the Coward's Punch campaign.

Danny Green’s STOP the Coward Punch campaign was started in 2012 with the aim of raising awareness of the devastating effects of the coward punch on the community, including the physical and mental scars survivors, families and friends are left with for life.

STOP the Coward Punch believes in the right of all people to enjoy themselves, safely and free from violence. With support from entertainers, athletes, community leaders, politicians and everyday Australians, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the simple precautions we – as a community and as individuals – can take to ensure safe and enjoyable outings and, ultimately, reduce the number of coward punch occurrences in our communities.