Introduction
The Research Presentation is one of the core external assessments in IB Theatre. It asks you to investigate a world theatre tradition and demonstrate your understanding by explaining, analyzing, and applying its conventions. This task is not just about sharing information—it’s about showing how research connects to practice and how traditions influence your own theatrical work.
Preparing effectively for the Research Presentation is key to achieving a high grade. This guide will walk you through the steps to research, plan, and present with confidence.
Quick Start Checklist
- Select a world theatre tradition with strong documentation.
- Research both cultural context and performance conventions.
- Experiment physically with conventions in rehearsal.
- Structure your presentation clearly with introduction, analysis, and reflection.
- Rehearse delivery to ensure clarity and confidence.
Understanding the Research Presentation
The Research Presentation (SL 30%, HL 20%) requires you to:
- Research a world theatre tradition in depth.
- Analyze its cultural and historical context.
- Identify and explain its performance conventions.
- Apply conventions practically and reflect on discoveries.
- Present findings in a structured, engaging format.
Examiners want to see a balance of research, application, and reflection—not just a lecture on history.
Steps to Prepare for the Research Presentation
1. Choose Your Tradition Wisely
Pick a tradition with enough available resources and performance conventions to explore. Traditions like Noh, Kathakali, Kabuki, Commedia dell’Arte, Yoruba performance, or Beijing Opera are often well-documented.
2. Research in Depth
Focus on both context (history, culture, values) and conventions (movement, costume, music, audience interaction). Organize research into clear categories for easy reference.
3. Apply Through Practice
Don’t stop at reading—test conventions in rehearsal. Try exercises, gestures, or staging inspired by the tradition. Document both successes and challenges.
4. Structure Your Presentation
A strong structure might include:
- Introduction: Explain the tradition and your research question.
- Cultural Context: Show understanding of origins and significance.
- Performance Conventions: Analyze key features with examples.
- Practical Application: Demonstrate or reflect on experiments.
- Reflection: Evaluate challenges, discoveries, and personal growth.
5. Rehearse Delivery
Practice aloud to ensure timing, clarity, and confidence. Use visuals (slides, diagrams, or props) to support, not distract from, your explanation.
Tips for Success
- Stay focused. Don’t try to cover everything—choose two or three conventions in depth.
- Use your own voice. Avoid reading directly from notes or slides.
- Engage your audience. Use examples, demonstrations, or images to illustrate points.
- Reflect critically. Be honest about what was difficult or surprising in your research.
- Document everything. Keep notes, sketches, or rehearsal photos for your portfolio.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Treating the presentation like a history lecture instead of linking to performance.
- Trying to cover too much material superficially.
- Copying techniques without understanding cultural meaning.
- Ignoring reflection on personal discoveries and challenges.
- Overloading slides with text instead of using clear visuals.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
The Research Presentation is your chance to show examiners that you are both a scholar and a theatre-maker. At RevisionDojo, we help students choose the right traditions, structure their presentations, and rehearse effectively. With our expert guidance, you’ll be prepared to present with clarity, confidence, and cultural awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should the Research Presentation be?
Follow IB guidelines for timing. Practicing with a stopwatch ensures you cover everything without rushing or exceeding the limit.
2. Do I have to perform live demonstrations during the presentation?
It’s not mandatory, but practical examples can strengthen your analysis. Even a short demonstration of movement or gesture can show deeper understanding.
3. How do I make my Research Presentation stand out?
By balancing depth with creativity. Focus on cultural meaning, connect research to practice, and reflect critically on your personal learning journey.
Conclusion
Preparing for the IB Theatre Research Presentation means more than memorizing facts—it’s about engaging deeply with a tradition, applying it in practice, and reflecting critically on what you’ve learned. By choosing your tradition carefully, structuring your presentation clearly, and rehearsing with intention, you’ll deliver a presentation that impresses examiners. With RevisionDojo’s guidance, you can approach the Research Presentation with confidence and aim for a level 7.
