Introduction to Sound Design
Contributing Educator: Alexa Wynschenk-Ring
In this unit, students explore how sound can become one of theatre’s most powerful storytelling tools. Through hands-on Foley exploration, collaborative soundscape activities, and guided script analysis, students learn to think like sound designers as they create mood, establish setting, support character, and enhance dramatic action. After building a shared understanding of the sound design process, students apply their knowledge by designing and producing an original soundscape for a script excerpt using live Foley techniques or digital audio tools. The unit culminates with student presentations and peer feedback, reinforcing that effective sound design is far more than adding effects—it is an intentional artistic choice that brings stories to life.
Lesson Plans Included: 8
Materials: Student-facing lesson slides and printable resources are editable and provided to guide learning.
Grade Levels: 6-12
Lesson Plan Topics
- Introduction to Sound Design - Radio drama, film, and theatre (NCAS: TH:Cr2.1.I.a, TH:Pr5.1.I.b)
- Foley Exploration - Creating your own sound effects (NCAS: TH:Cr3.1.I.b, TH:Pr5.1.8.a)
- Soundscape Creation - collaborative soundscape activity (NCAS: TH:Cr3.1.I.b, TH:Pr5.1.8.a)
- Script Analysis for Sound Design - identifying opportunities for sound (NCAS: TH:Cr.1.1.5.b, TH:Cr1.1.II.b)
- Sound Design Planning - solutions to support storytelling (NCAS: TH:Cr1.1.I.b, TH:Cr3.1.I.b)
- Sound Design Project (Part 1) - design and create sound effects with digital tools (NCAS: TH:Pr5.1.8.a, TH:Cr3.1.8.c)
- Sound Design Project (Part 2) - design and create sound effects with digital tools (NCAS: TH:Pr5.1.8.a, TH:Cr3.1.8.c)
- Presentation and Reflection - Explanation of artistic choices (NCAS: TH:Cr1.1.I.b, TH:Cr3.1.I.c)
