Goals and Objectives

By the end of this course students will:

Description

The origins of drama, both Western and non-Western, make its study as a form of literature unique and compelling.  First, unlike poetry or prose, drama is written, with some exceptions, to be performed.  As a result, plays are extremely malleable; they contain potential for a great variety of interpretations.  This deceptively simple principal means that we must keep an open mind as to the variety of interpretations, but also be sure that our own interpretations are supported by the text.  Second, drama has its roots firmly in ritual and ceremony and although much of the devotional element has faded, enough remains that we must keep this originary fact in mind. 

            In this course, we will study a number of different plays both as literary texts to be read and as texts to be interpreted though performance.  We will begin with early plays and work to acquire the critical language necessary to discuss and write about drama.  We will move on to more recent plays and examine live and filmed performances.  At the same time, we will study the historical development of drama, both in Western and non-Western traditions. 

Texts (available at the campus bookshop)

R. S. Gwynn, ed. Drama: a Pocket Anthology, 4th ed.

David Mamet, Oleanna

Plays available on the D2L site (see calendar)

A flash drive dedicated to schoolwork

Grading                                  Scale                    University Interpretation

2 Examinations                   200 points     100–94%       A         Superior Achievement

10 Quizzes                          100 points     90–93%          A-       

Oleanna Review                  50 points       87–89%          B+

Performance Project           100 points     84-86%           B         Above Average

Discussion Leader               50 points       80-83%           B-

Total                                500 points     77-79%           C+

                                                           74-76%           C         Average

All scores will be posted on                    70-73%           C-

the D2L gradebook.                             60-69%           D         Below Average

                                                           Below 60       F         Failure

Grade Guidelines

These descriptions apply to the final grade in the class and the score on particular assignments.

A work is outstanding.  It goes beyond the basic requirements of the assignment and the class.  The work shows evidence of critical and original thinking.  Ideas are clearly supported and explained.

B work is more than satisfactory.  It shows understanding of the given task and an understanding of the rules for writing as set out in the syllabus.  Thinking is clear, though not necessarily highly critical or highly original.  Ideas are supported and explained, although not always clearly or consistently. 

C work is satisfactory.  It shows familiarity with though not a complete understanding of the given task and rules for writing as set out in the syllabus.  Thought shows inconsistent critical engagement or originality.  Ideas are too broad and not clearly supported with evidence.  Writing tends to summarize or describe rather than analyze. 

D work is below average.  It shows an inconsistent understanding of the given task, text, and rules.  Thought and writing are often disorganized and do not communicate an understanding of audience or genre.  Paper seems to be written quickly with little attention to revision or proofreading.

F work is unsatisfactory.  It shows little if any understanding of the given task, text, or rules.  Thought and writing are disorganized and do not communicate an understanding of audience or genre. 

Policies

In the class, I will strive to observe the university’s core values of integrity, civility, and responsibility.  I have written the policies below with the belief that a mutual understanding and engagement with these core values will make this class more rewarding for all of us.  By accepting this syllabus and attending this class, I expect that you have also agreed to abide by these policies.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities reserve the right to self-identify; must register with the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) to receive services; will provide the appropriate notice from OSD for accommodations, which specifically involve faculty.

            Requests for approval for reasonable accommodations should be directed to OSD.  Approved accommodations will be recorded on the ODS Accommodation Approval notice and provided to the student.  Students are expected to adhere to the ODS procedures for self-identifying, providing documentation and requesting accommodations in a timely manner.  The OSD is located in Azorsky 105 and the telephone number is 724.938.5781.

Academic Honesty

According to the University Bulletin, “[t]ruth and honesty are necessary prerequisites for all education, and students who attempt to improve their grades or class standing through any form of academic dishonesty may be penalized by disciplinary action ranging from a verbal reprimand to a failing grade in the course or dismissal from the University. If the situation appears to merit a severe penalty, the professor will refer the matter to the appropriate dean or to the Provost. The student may appeal the penalty as outlined above with the Academic Integrity Committee hearing appeals above the level of Dean.” 

I assume that all work you turn in for this course is yours, and any material that you have acquired from an outside source is documented properly.  Failure to do so is considered plagiarism and, per University policy, may result in failure of the course, failure of the assignment, or dismissal from the University.

Late Papers

You are responsible for turning in all work assigned in class on the day that it is due.  Any papers turned in after the class meeting will lose ten points per day until they are turned in.  Any assignment not turned in will receive a score of zero. 

Attendance and Participation

According to the University Catalogue, “[r]egular class attendance is a prerequisite to successful class performance.”  Important parts of the work for this course will be done in small and large groups.  This means that your consistent presence and participation are important to the success of the class as a whole.  Participation includes contributing to class discussion, prompt attendance, listening and responding constructively to your classmates, being prepared to discuss the readings, and bringing your books and writing material to every class meeting.

A sign-in sheet will be distributed at the beginning of every class and will be used to keep track of attendance.  There is no penalty for missing class, but you are responsible for any work done or due in class on any given day.  Missed assignments and quizzes may not be made up.  As noted above, papers may only be turned in during class time.  Similarly, you are responsible for contacting your group members if you miss a class.

This syllabus makes no distinctions between excused and unexcused absences.  If you add this class late, for whatever reason, you are responsible for the material covered on the days you missed.  If you are a member of a sports team or other university organization and must miss a course because of that commitment, you must have your coach or advisor contact me in writing (not via phone or email) at least two weeks before the absence.

Cell Phones

Please turn off cell phones before class begins.  If you are expecting an important call, turn your phone to silent mode.  If the call arrives, quietly step out into the hall to take it.  If you use your phone during class, you will be asked to leave.