Adaptation Project Info

Adaptation Project Description and Guidelines

Part 1: Literary analysis and interpretation

All texts are read in detail and with close attention to their literary features. Focus on first identifying literary features and then probing the various layers of meaning. Close attention is also paid to the means by which these materials are presented by writers, and to their effects on the reader. Students should be able to discuss the various choices made by authors in their texts, as well as the consequences of those choices for the texts themselves and for the readers.

The features to be covered should include:

• diction/language (choice of words)
• imagery
• rhythm
• tone
 • structure and form
 • point of view
• setting
 • plot and characterization.

This list is not exhaustive and other areas may be looked at by students so long as they contribute to a literary analysis of the text.

In addition to close reading of the texts, the contexts must also be considered. Students should explore the similarities and differences between the genres and cultures encountered in their reading. They should consider the implications of these in the interpretations of the texts studied. 

Part 2: Transformation of Text into Theater

This is defined as the adaptation or reconstruction of a non-dramatic text for live theatrical presentation. Any type of text may be transformed: prose or poetry, fiction or non-fiction.

Possibilities for transformation include the following.

 • Speech may become dramatic dialogue and monologue.
• A narrated incident may become a scripted scene.
• A reported episode may become a performed episode.
• Viewpoint may be shifted, for example, from third person to first person.
• Focus or emphasis may be shifted.

Production elements (for example, costumes, lighting, make-up and sound) can be used to support the performance but it should be remembered that the students will be assessed on their theatrical performance. Dance and music are acceptable as production elements. However, performances involving only dance or music are not appropriate in this assessment.

Part 3: Analyzing Performance

The oral commentary will include a critical analysis of the performance and the choices made.

Some elements to identify include:

• the effect of direction, performance skills and acting techniques
• the synthesis of elements in a performance
 • the clear intent and effect of the performance on the target audience