Sample Question 2:  Describe two specific things the actor playing the part of Phillip did with his voice to communicate Phillip’s character. In your answer, make sure you explain WHY each thing the actor did with his voice communicated Phillip’s character.

This short constructed-response question measures students’ knowledge of how artistic choices, in this case the use of voice, convey meaning to an audience. Responses were scored with a three-level scoring guide that allowed for partial credit. The sample student responses below represent a Partial score and the highest score, Acceptable.

Partial. While many students at this level could accurately describe Phillip’s feelings or the actor’s voice, few could fully explain how the actor’s voice conveyed these feelings. This student makes a good observation about the actor’s use of a high voice but cannot support the second comment about Phillip’s desire for acceptance.

Acceptable. Students at this level were able to offer more than one accurate and specific observation about the actor’s use of voice to convey Phillip’s character.

Back to the Theatre Performance Task: "Bug Pleasing" page.