Stanislavski’s System – Student Workbook
Page 1 – Units, Objectives & Superobjective
Stanislavski believed that characters are driven by what they want (objectives). Actors must break a
script into units, each with an objective, and connect them to the character’s bigger goal
(superobjective).
Task 1: Script Breakdown
Choose a short scene or monologue. Break it into at least three units.
Unit Objective (What does my character want?) Active Verb (to persuade, to comfort, etc.)
1
2
3
Task 2: Finding the Superobjective
What is your character’s overall goal (superobjective)? How do your smaller objectives connect to
it?
Page 2 – Imagination, Magic If & Subtext
Task 3: The Magic If
Answer the following as your character:
If I were in this situation, what would I want most?
What might stop me from getting it?
What physical actions would I take to achieve it?
Task 4: Subtext
For each line, write what the hidden subtext might be.
Line Possible Subtext
I’m so happy to see you.
That’s a great idea.
Page 3 – Concentration, Relaxation & Communion
Task 5: Circles of Attention
Which circle felt easiest to focus on? Which was hardest?
Task 6: Relaxation Check
Where in your body do you hold the most tension? How might this affect your acting?
Task 7: Communion Practice
How did your partner’s response change when you truly connected with them? Write your reflection
below.
Page 4 – Emotional Memory vs Physical Actions
Task 8: Emotional Memory Reflection
Think of a time you felt a strong emotion. Without describing the event, write how your body reacted
(sweating, shaking, smiling, etc.).
Task 9: Physical Actions Experiment
Act out nervousness (e.g., shaky hands). Did the physical action trigger any emotion? Write your
reflection.
Task 10: Bringing It All Together
Choose a short monologue or scene. Apply Stanislavski’s techniques (Units, Objectives,
Superobjective, Subtext, Magic If, Physical Actions). Write a short reflection on how these tools
changed your performance.
