Drama is an exciting and challenging subject. As well as learning the techniques of acting and the origins of the craft, students will also discover that it improves their language and communication skills. Its collaborative nature helps pupils to develop key skills of controlled focus, negotiation, compromise and self-confidence. Speaking in front of an audience or in a pressurised situation will become far less daunting and students’vocabulary will be extended as they adopt roles and characters. Drama involves students working creatively together and problem-solving in groups of various sizes. These skills, along with flexibility, empathy and risk-taking are recognised as vital in the workplace and throughout adult life.
The course covers the following subject content:
- A range of genres and performance styles (abstract, devising, dramatic irony, melodrama, mime)
- Performance and/or production skills on and off site<>
- Development of ICT in planning and recording responses to drama
- A range of stage conventions (Theatre in the Round, Traverse and Proscenium Theatre)
- Theatre in the Modern World (American Realism, Kitchen Sink, Theatre of the Absurd
- British and International Playwrights,
- Theatre in Education focusing on issues relevant to the modern day
Theatre trips will be organised throughout the course for students to study and reflect upon professional practices, as
well as opportunities to participate in
professional courses and workshops on and off site.
The course leads to the AQA GCSE in Drama. A written exam contributes 40% of the final grade.
The exam comprises of 3 sections - Practical work, Study and performance of a scripted play, and Study of a live theatre production.
The remaining 60% is comprised of practical assessment as follows:
- Preparation and performance of a monologue (includes character development, script, costume)
- Completion of two major projects which may include: Devising, Acting, Theater in Education, Physical Theater, Puppetry, Maskwork and Lighting
Each project is assessed in the following three areas:
- Work in Progress (rehearsals, group commitment and effort)
- Contextual Essay (formed from the practical work)
- Individual Performance Mark (based on final individual and group performance)
Performances will be in front of a variety of audiences: adults, young children, industry professionals, and at various venues in and outside of school, the Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne Minster, Poole Lighthouse etc.
The course involves extensive rehearsals both in lesson time and after school periodically during the two year course. Students will need to be committed to their groups and their work.
