Orginal Monologue Assignment
Orginal Monologue Assignment
Drama II
Original Monologue Project
Monologues: A monologue is a one-person scene that offers the audience special insights
into the character. Sometimes monologues or soliloquies are used in plays to advance the
plot by revealing the characters inner thoughts and feelings.
Outcomes:
Assignment:
The student is to create a 5-10 minute dramatic monologue and perform it in front of
his/her peers. The object is to develop a scene that shows a character experience conflict
or a dilemma. The monologue will be evaluated using the following criteria.
Developing a Monologue
1. Brainstorm character ideas and write them down on paper. Here are a few
examples:
1. Hot dog salesperson
2. An elite athlete
3. A soldier
4. Angry parent
2. Try improvising the character in front of a mirror or with a friend.
3. Write a character analysis (Character sketch).
4. Write down some possible conflicts or dilemmas your character could have. The
conflict may not be obvious. A monologue is the perfect dramatic form to reveal
an inner conflict. Surprises in a monologue are wonderful. What unexpected
details can the audience learn about your character?
5. Talk about your character with someone else. Show them the character.
6. Improvise the conflict and allow the character to find a resolution to their
problem.
7. Decide where the monologue takes place. One place is best.
8. Decide on a costume for your character.
9. Write your monologue.
10. Block (precise stage movements) your monologue.
11. Write your monologue with blocking notes.
12. Write your final copy (use a computer if you have one – we will have lab days)
13. Rehearse!
14. Rehearse!
15. Rehearse!
Note: Some students like to start by writing something and work from a written text. This
is fine provided the written text is allowed to change and develop as the character in the
monologue grows.
If you are not sure about the content of your monologue just check with the teacher
before you submit it for assessment.
Drama II
Character Development
1. Character’s Name
2. Age
3. Home life – family, pets, etc.
4. Favorite Food
5. Music tastes
6. Favorite outfit – typical clothing your character wears
7. Hobbies
8. Career
9. Biggest Secret
10. General Attitude/Attitudes
11. List 3 movement qualities of your character.
12. Write 3 words that describe your character’s voice.
13. Who is important to your character?
14. What is important to your character?
15. Write one event that is important from your character’s past.
16. What does your character want?
17. Write a short character sketch about your character: Physical characteristics
(movement, voice, etc.)
18. What is your character’s present situation?
19. Historical background.
Monologue Rough Draft
Advice
One Location
Real time – make the monologue active
Opening /5
Conflict /5
Resolution /5
Ending /5
Character Development /5
Total /35