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Script Marking

Performance
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

The practice of annotating a poem for live delivery. Marks may indicate breaths, stresses, pauses, movements, or changes in tone.

Detailed Definition
Script marking helps a performer convert close reading into a practical performance plan. A poet or reader may underline stressed words, slash possible breath points, circle repetitions, or note moments for a change in position or vocal quality. These annotations are not a substitute for responsiveness during performance; they provide a map for rehearsal. For complex poems, script marking can prevent accidental monotony and help preserve important formal patterns under pressure.
Example
Example in poetry:
A reader marks slashes in a printed poem to indicate breath pauses and circles words that need vocal emphasis; For a poem with a refrain, the performer underlines each repeated line and writes reminders such as softer or slower beside later repetitions; A student uses arrows above a line to show a rising or falling vocal pitch when preparing a dramatic question; In a poem with dialogue, the reader labels different speakers in the margins and marks where the voice should shift
Additional Notes
Script marking helps a performer prepare delivery choices on the page. Mark breaths, emphasis, pauses, volume changes, eye contact, and movement, but leave room for live responsiveness.
Also Known As
Script Annotation Score Marking
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