4 Grade Lesson 4 Characterization—How An Actor Prepares ...

Background Information for Teaching Artists
Teacher’s “Script
A great deal of work goes into being an actor
Actors must prepare themselves for each role they
play. There are many skills that an actor needs to
be successful in his or her portrayal of a character.
Imagination
Research -
Reading
Interviews
Observation
Study the script for clues –
be respectful of the playwright
Focus of attention
Vocal training –
power, expressiveness, clarity, singing
Physical training – general fitness, flexibility,
mime, acrobatics, fight training, dance
Insight into the psychology of human behavior
Ability to not be self-conscious –
be a fool, or be vulnerable, or be
unpleasant
Posture – energy - expression
An understanding of how make-up and
costuming can be useful
Has the class been studying an historical person?
Check with the school teacher prior to this class
lesson. (See above)
Class Activity:
Introduction
Q. What are some of these?
‣Write skills on the board as students share
ideas. Some of the skills or qualities that we
want to encourage the students to name are
listed to the side. You may have to help a lot
with suggestions.
Historical Characterization
Q. If you were an actor who is going to portray
an historical person who is the person you
would chose?
Q. How would you use the skills we just named
and that are listed on the board to help you
understand this person and make your
portrayal of the person believable to an
audience?