Character Development Masks

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, students will deepen their understanding of character development through the use of masks. They will explore how masks can influence movement, voice, and physicality while embodying their created characters. The focus will be on improvisation, collaboration, and expressiveness.

Duration

60 minutes

Age Group

12-14 years (KS3)

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Understand the significance of masks in storytelling and character portrayal.
2. Use their created masks to embody characters convincingly.
3. Demonstrate enhanced physicality and movement quality through improvisation.
4. Collaborate effectively with peers during improv exercises.

National Curriculum Framework

• Drama: Explore and develop ideas, create, and present drama that communicates meaning.
• Art and Design: Use art as a form of communication, experimenting with visual techniques and materials.

Resources Needed

• Student-created masks (previous lesson’s output)
• Open space for movement activities
• Props (optional: hats, scarves, etc. for improvisation)
• Sheets for reflections (comfy seating area)

Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

• Warm-Up Activity:
  • Begin with a physical warm-up (stretching and movement transitions).
  • Introduce a “mask greeting” where students greet each other using their masks to get comfortable with embodying their characters.

Activity 1: Understanding Masks (10 minutes)

• Discussion:
  • Facilitate a group discussion on how masks can change perceptions of a character.
  • Ask students to share their thoughts on what emotions and characteristics their masks evoke. Encourage them to consider how their masks alter their movement and expression.

Activity 2: Movement Exercises (15 minutes)

• Movement Exploration:
  • Divide students into pairs. Each pair will work on a short 1-minute exercise.
  • One student wears a mask while the other studies their movement and physicality.
  • Encourage the non-masked partner to describe how the mask influences movements (e.g., more confident, anxious, etc.).

Activity 3: Improvisational Scene Work (20 minutes)

• Group Work:
  • Put students into small groups (preferably 4 per group).
  • Each group will create a short improvisational scene (2-3 minutes) centred around a scenario that complements their masks.
  • Encourage groups to focus on how their physical movements, vocal tones, and interactions change when using masks.
  • Provide props for creativity where necessary and allocate 5 minutes for preparation.

Presentation and Feedback (5 minutes)

• Showcase:
  • Each group performs their scene for the class.
  • After each performance, peer feedback will be encouraged, focusing on how effective the character portrayal was through movement and mask use.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Reflection:
  • Wrap up the session by asking students to share one insight or feeling they experienced while using their masks.
  • Distribute reflection sheets where they can write about the skills they learned and how they can apply them in future lessons.

Assessment

• Observation of students during warm-up, group work, and performances, noting their ability to engage with character and use their masks creatively.
• Completion of reflection sheets outlining their understanding and application of character development theories through the use of masks.

Differentiation Strategies

• Provide additional support to students who may struggle with movement by pairing them with more expressive peers.
• Ensure that students within mixed abilities work together to foster inclusivity and diversity of thought and expression.

Health and Safety Considerations

• Ensure the space is clear of obstacles before starting movement activities.
• Remind students to be aware of their surroundings when performing to avoid collisions.

This lesson not only engages students in a playful exploration of drama but also provides them with the tools to understand character development and expression effectively.