THEA 0019A - Stage Properties
http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/thea-0019a/
Catalog Description Formerly Known as DRMA 19A Hours: 90 (18 lecture, 72 activity) Description: Covers basic skills to create stage properties through a variety of construction and acquisition methods including locating, procuring, and fabricating specialized props for main stage productions. Students examine ways to utilize common, unusual and specialized materials. Includes period research for prop implementation and identification. (CSU, UC) Course Student Learning Outcomes CSLO #1: Explain how to acquire appropriate props for a production. CSLO #2: Build an effective prop for a theatrical production. CSLO #3: Read a play and identify appropriate props for a production by creating a properties list. Effective Term Fall 2018 Course Type Credit - Degree-applicable Contact Hours 90 Outside of Class Hours 72 Total Student Learning Hours 162 Course Objectives Students will through oral, written and practical application: Lecture Objectives: 1. Read plays and describe possibilities for prop utilization 2. Identify appropriate props for the production 3. Describe and assess the specific needs for a production with regards to the props 4. Discuss ways to analyze budget restrictions and apply these limitations to overall prop needs 5. Identify best methods to obtain props appropriately for an entire production 6. Review methods to research for a specific historical play to determine the appropriate props of the period and artistic style of the production 7. Discuss creative acquisition techniques and define prop construction resources. Activity Objectives: 1. Identify and procure appropriate props for the production 2. Develop and assess available budget resources for a production, and select appropriate props within these limitations 3. Build or modify props to meet the specific needs for a production 4. Discuss creative acquisition techniques and determine prop construction resources. General Education Information Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval) Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval) IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval) Articulation Information CSU Transferable UC Transferable Methods of Evaluation Problem Solving Examinations Example: Students will apply what they've studied in prop source books to research a prop with an eye toward balancing cost, materials and appropriate purpose. They will be graded based on authenticity, adherence to period, and ability to be used on stage. Projects Example: Students will find or acquire parts to build a working lamp. Instructor will evaluate based on the success of function, completeness and creative style. Skill Demonstrations Example: Students will construct an assigned prop for the current production. Instructor will grade on types of materials choses, construction techniques and the quality of the execution. Repeatable No Methods of Instruction Activity Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Activity: Students will carve a prop from blue foam. Lecture: Instructor will lecture to students about safety and will demonstrate and guide the students in the correct usage of power tools: the table saw, the band saw, the radial arm saw, and the chop saw. Students are expected to participate in the lecture and describe safety measures and usage of each tool. Instructor will demonstrate techniques used to carve blue foam. Students will then demonstrate how to carve blue foam. Distance Learning The Instructor will set-up all assignments and discussion in the LMS to provide a means for an interactive, engaging and organized learning environment. Tools and apps such as video conferencing, videos, and textbooks will be used as training, discussion platforms, analysis and models for students. On ground demonstrations and practical use of tools, materials, and equipment will also demonstrate and support written study. Typical Out of Class Assignments Reading Assignments 1. Students will read assigned chapter from textbook and be able to identify five main methods to acquire properties, as well as the appropriate time and situation for each method. 2. Students will regularly read selected plays and be able to compare and contrast building techniques used for special effects. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Students are assigned to see two plays and write a formal/technical critique specific to the use of props within those plays. 2. Problem Solving--Given a specific prop within the context of a specific play, students must determine appropriate materials and construction techniques for creating this prop with special attention given to cost of creation and technical limitations in the drama lab. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) 1. Sculpt a small, (2"x3") 3-dimensional, recognizable shape out of sculpy. Duplicate the object by carving and shaping the same, but larger (4"x6"), image out of blue rigid foam. Experiment with different "paint on foam" applications. 2. Without a preconceived design in mind, create and assemble a piece of jewelry (any style) from the jewelry findings, beads, and various decorative parts provided. 3. Bring to class a "found" bottle or jar. By using the glass texturing techniques demonstrated in class, create a completely different, ancient use vessel. 4. Design a moderately small box for a particular use. Be specific about the type of joints and the assembly techniques to be used. Construct it from scratch using available wood and finish the exterior according to each student's design. 5. Research an ancient weapon. Read about its use, look, size, weight, purpose, and the people who used it. Using building techniques and construction concepts discussed in class, build weapon from available objects. Solve the problems of making it look and feel "real." Finish it with the appropriate paint or treatment. 6. Students are assigned one set prop from the current semester play, for example a fire hydrant. Students must work with available materials and within the size, look, monetary, and time limitations. Students will build or acquire the item from scratch to the designer's specifications, and paint and finish the item as needed. Students will be expected to provide the ideas to solve construction problems. Required Materials The Theater Props Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Theater Properties, Materials and Construction Author: Thurston James Publisher: Players Press Publication Date: 2000 Text Edition: 2nd Classic Textbook?: OER Link: OER: Making Stage Props: A Practical Guide Author: Andy Wilson Publisher: Crowood Press Publication Date: 2003 Text Edition: Classic Textbook?: OER Link: OER: The Prop Master Author: Amy Mussman Publisher: Meriwether Publishing Publication Date: 2008 Text Edition: 1st Classic Textbook?: OER Link: OER: The Prop Building Guidebook Author: Eric Hart Publisher: Focal Press Publication Date: 2013 Text Edition: Classic Textbook?: OER Link: OER: Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.
