Courses
The following courses are available to any high school student at Kalamazoo Central regardless of skill or background. Advanced level classes do require prior class participation, and many classes may be repeated if desired. Please speak or email your school counselor to enroll.
Drama I – Acting for the Stage
[SBG] Applied
[MAC] Visual, Performing & Applied Arts
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3052-1
Prerequisite: None
Note: Mandatory attendance for a theatrical
performance will be required during the
term of the class.
Students will study acting fundamentals &
techniques by exploring movement,
characterization and improvisation. Dramatic
plays, playwriting, and voice work will also be
incorporated. These studies will culminate in
the presentation of memorized scenes and a
final monologue performance. Other
opportunities include auditioning for the school
play, the musical, forensics, impromptu team,
or working backstage for stage crew.
Drama II – Acting for the Stage
[MAC] Visual, Performing & Applied Arts
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3053-1
Prerequisite: Drama I
Note: Mandatory attendance for a theatrical
performance is required during the term of
the class.
Students will explore dramatic elements such
as comedy and the power of storytelling
coupled with play analysis and the rehearsal
process, ending with a student produced final
production. Other opportunities include
auditioning for the school play, musical,
forensics, improv team, or working backstage
for stage crew.
Advanced Drama A
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3054-4
Prerequisites: Drama I and II
Scheduling Note: It is recommended that
these courses are taken sequentially for the
purpose of developing ensemble.
Students will develop their acting skills in an
intense classroom setting. Students will work
on advancing their improv skills and developing
ensemble. The actors will examine the script
writing process and script selection while
working to advance their auditioning and
directing techniques. The first section of the
course will culminate in a workshop or
performance.
Advanced Drama B
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3054-5
Prerequisite: Advanced Drama A
This course is a continuation of Advanced Drama
A with a concentrated focus on creating an audition
portfolio, scene study, and finally, writing, directing,
and acting in a final public performance piece.
Advanced Drama C
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3054-6
Prerequisite: Advanced Drama B
This course is a continuation of Advanced Drama B
with a concentrated focus on creating an audition
portfolio, scene study, and finally, writing, directing,
and acting in a final public performance piece.
Forensics
[MAC] Visual, Performing & Applied Arts
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3055-1
Prerequisite: None
Scheduling Note: May be elected more than once
Students will master the techniques for competition in
individual speaking events including humorous,
dramatic and multiple reading, extemporaneous
speaking, oratory, and informative speaking.
Participation at local-level competitions is required.
Debate
[MAC] Visual, Performing & Applied Arts
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3051-1
Prerequisite: None
Students will learn the fundamentals of debating.
Debate classes will either explore Legislative or Policy
Debate styles. The class will develop extensive
research skills, abilities in proper procedure, and
effective strategies for persuasive speaking. Students
will judge, and be judged, by their peers on
argumentation ability, delivery style, knowledge of the
topic, and decorum. Participation at a local
tournament may be required.
Public Speaking
[MAC] Visual, Performing & Applied Arts
1 Trimester 0.5 Credit
Course #: 3060-1
Prerequisite: None
This course offers the student strategies and skills on
how to become a better, more articulate speaker. Each student
will present individual speeches throughout this course and learn
how to critique themselves as well as their peers. Preparation includes
research, outlining, and writing. This class is recommended for students
interested in Debate.
https://kalamazoopublicschools.com/