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Step into a world of comic book clashes and cinematic showdowns as students explore what it takes to become a superhero - or a villain! This dynamic scheme of work invites learners to delve into the traits, movements, voices, and designs that bring larger-than-life characters to the stage. Through improvisation, voice and movement exercises, costume creation, and technical theatre exploration, students will develop their dramatic toolkit while analysing the timeless battle of good versus evil.

Highlights of the Unit:

• Striking power poses and exaggerated entrances
• Creating slogans and catchphrases to develop vocal style
• Crafting masks or capes using symbolism and texture
• Designing dramatic superhero/villain lairs
• Experimenting with lighting and sound in a “reveal scene”
• Debating the moral grey area between good and evil

Ideal For:
Drama departments seeking a fun, immersive, and inclusive scheme of work that encourages performance confidence, creativity, and design thinking - especially suitable for diverse learners, including those with SEND, ASD, and SEMH.

Learning Intentions:

• Understand the defining traits and archetypes of heroes and villains.
• Use exaggerated physicality and vocal expression to portray character.
• Explore symbolism through costume, props, lighting, and sound.
• Develop short devised performances based on dramatic conflict.
• Reflect on the storytelling power of drama and design.

Key Skills Developed:

• Improvisation and devising
• Vocal control (tone, pitch, pace)
• Movement and posture characterisation
• Use of design elements (costume, set, lighting, sound)
• Collaboration, analysis, and self-reflection

Assessment:
Formative: Class discussions, peer feedback, exit tickets, and design tasks.
Summative: Devised hero-villain confrontation incorporating performance and technical elements, followed by reflection.

Cross-Curricular Links:
English: Character development, persuasive slogans, storytelling
Art & Design: Costume/set design and colour symbolism
Music: Soundscapes and vocal modulation
History: Exploring cultural and historical heroes and villains
PSHE: Identity, morality, empathy, and teamwork