1. TITLE: Exploring the World of Minimalism in Theater
2. LEVEL: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
3. VOCABULARY:
- Obsessed (verb): to think about something constantly
- Minimalism (noun): a style or technique that uses the least amount of elements to create an effect
- Disuade (verb): to convince someone not to do something
- Excess (noun): an amount that is more than necessary
- Simplicity (noun): the state of being simple or not complicated
- Collaborator (noun): a person who works together with others on a project
- Puritanical (adjective): having strict moral or religious beliefs
- Imitation (noun): copying or reproducing something
4. LISTENING:
1. According to the speaker, what is his view on minimalism in theater?
2. How did his approach to theater change over the years?
3. What was the role of his collaborator in the creation of his minimalistic stage design?
4. What advice does the speaker have for young directors?
5. How does the speaker feel about imitation in his field?
5. GRAMMAR:
1. I never ___________ (be) obsessed by minimalism.
2. He ___________ (try) to convince young directors not to believe in minimalism.
3. I ___________ (start) with a love of trying out everything.
4. The human being ___________ (be) richer than Great stage effects.
5. The speaker suggests that young directors ___________ (live) through the same experience in order to discover the power of simplicity.
6. ACTIVITY: Discussing Minimalism in Theater
After listening to the transcript, students will be divided into pairs or small groups to discuss the following questions:
1. Do you agree with the speaker's views on minimalism in theater? Why or why not?
2. Do you think minimalistic productions can still be engaging and impactful?
3. Can you think of any examples of minimalism in theater that you have seen or heard of?
4. In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of using minimalism in theater?
5. How do you think minimalism in theater reflects society and culture?
7. HOMEWORK: Writing assignment
Students will be asked to write a short essay on the topic of minimalism in theater. They can choose to either support or refute the speaker's views. The essay should include their own opinions, examples, and reasons to support their argument.
8. ASSESSMENT:
Answer key:
1. He never has been.
2. He started with a love of trying out everything, then moved towards excess, and finally towards simplicity.
3. His collaborator conceived and designed the few color chairs.
4. He advises young directors to live through the same experience and discover the power of simplicity.
5. He sees imitation as flattering but not effective in creating original work.
Evaluation criteria:
1. Comprehension of the listening transcript.
2. Accuracy in grammar exercises.
3. Participation and contribution in the discussion activity.
4. Quality of writing assignment.
5. Reflection and understanding of the topic in the closing activity.
9. CLOSING:
To wrap up the lesson, students will be asked to reflect on the topic of minimalism in theater and share their thoughts on how it can be applied to their own lives. They can also review the new vocabulary and discuss any other questions or comments they may have about the lesson.