8.8.c

Plays (Dramas)

Plays, or dramas, are a type of fiction that is performed in front of an audience. The written form is called a script. Plays are often divided into sections called acts and scenes, which help to develop the dramatic action in the story.

Act —

An act in a play is a major division in the drama and will correspond with elements of plot such as rising action, climax, falling action, etc. Some plays are just one act, while others are multiple acts. Acts can be further divided into scenes.

Scene —

A scene is usually viewed as a unit of action in a specific portion of the play. Multiple scenes make up an act. Scene changes are often, but not always, denoted by a change in characters or setting on the stage or in the script.

Dramatic action —

Dramatic action refers to anything within a play — physical movements, dialogue, feelings, changes in setting — that will add conflict or tension and help the plot move forward. Dramatic action has meaning and serves a purpose in a play.

Drama

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS): 8.8.c

analyze how playwrights develop dramatic action through the use of acts and scenes;

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