Drama
This GCSE course would suit anyone who is interested in the various aspects of dramatic work, it allows you to develop as a performer, a designer or both.
For the majority of the course you will be working in groups but there may be the opportunity for some individual work. You will focus on the following areas of study:
- Improvisation
- Devising
- Physical Theatre
- Practical study of a set text
- Acting
We will also look at lighting, sound, costume and sets and you may have the opportunity to work more on one of these areas if you wish.
Assessment
- 40% Written Exam. Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre, study of a set play and analysing the work of a live theatre. You can take books into this exam
- 40% Practical. Devising, performing and evaluating your own drama in a group. This is assessed by your teacher and includes your own written log as well as your performance
- 20% Practical. Performing extracts from a play. This is marked by an external moderator
Other Information
There will be a number of theatre visits organised during the course and you will be required to attend at least two of these.
Although Drama is a practical subject, there is a large amount of written work involved in the course. You will be required to write detailed evaluations of your work and to complete a number of essays.
It is necessary to film your practical assessments for the examiners and permission for this is a requirement of the course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have been in “plays” before?
Not at all! All you will need is an interest in what is involved in presenting ideas to an audience
Do I have to study lots of plays?
No, but you will need to read some plays and learn your lines.
Is it an easy option?
No. You will be expected to work hard and complete your assignments on time. You will need to be willing to work well with other people and keep your written work up-to-date
How will this subject help me in the future?
Drama provides you with a number of transferable skills and is now highly regarded by universities, colleges and a large proportion of employers as a challenging and difficult subject