drama - SS3 Literature Lesson Note

DRAMA GENERAL EVALUATION AND KEY NOTES

For SS3 Nigerian Students in Preparation for WAEC

Introduction

Drama is a genre of literature that tells a story through action and dialogue. It is meant to be performed, and it often uses music, dance, and other theatrical elements to create a sense of spectacle.

Drama can be evaluated on a number of criteria, including:

• Plot: The plot is the sequence of events that takes place in the play. It should be well-structured and engaging, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• Characters: The characters are the people who populate the play. They should be believable and well-developed, with their own unique motivations and goals.
• Dialogue: The dialogue is the language that the characters use to communicate with each other. It should be natural and realistic, and it should help to reveal the characters' personalities and motivations.
• Theme: The theme is the central message or idea that the play is trying to communicate. It should be something that is universal and relatable to the audience.
• Overall Effect: The overall effect of the play is the total impression that it leaves on the audience. This includes the play's tone, mood, and atmosphere.

Key Notes for SS3 Nigerian Students

• When evaluating a drama for WAEC, it is important to consider all of the criteria listed above. However, it is also important to keep in mind that WAEC examiners are particularly interested in plays that are relevant to Nigerian culture and society.
• Some popular Nigerian plays that are often studied for WAEC include:
  • Wole Soyinka's "the lion and the jewel"
  • Ola Rotimi's "The Gods Are Not to Blame"
  • Femi Osofisan's "Kolanut Crossroads"
  • Zulu Sofola's "Wedlock of the Gods"
  • J.P. Clark-Bekederemo's "Song of a Goat"

When studying a Nigerian play for WAEC, it is important to pay attention to the following:

• The play's historical and cultural context: This will help you to understand the play's themes and characters more deeply.
• The play's use of language: This includes both the dialogue and the playwright's use of imagery and symbolism.
• The play's dramatic structure: This includes the plot, characters, setting, and conflict.

When writing an essay about a Nigerian play for WAEC, it is important to be clear, concise, and well-organized. Be sure to support your points with evidence from the text.

Conclusion

Drama is a complex and challenging genre, but it is also one of the most rewarding. By following the tips above, SS3 Nigerian students can learn to evaluate and appreciate drama for WAEC.