Curriculum

Drama

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​Why study Drama?

Drama brings knowledge to life and allows pupils a high degree of ownership over their learning as they make decisions, manage information and solve problems. It draws upon their own experience of the world and then extends it, engaging emotions, intellect, imagination and invention. This is all taught collaboratively through creative projects that explore various scenarios, topical issues, texts and improvisation to promote enquiry, mutual respect and a sense of responsibility whilst also encouraging pupils to think critically, creatively and constructively.

​What will I study at key stage 4?

Drama GCSE offers students the opportunity to explore drama as a practical art form in which ideas and meaning are communicated to an audience through choices of form, style and convention. Students will create, perform and respond to drama informed by their theoretical knowledge of the drama and theatre. The subject content is divided into three components: Understanding drama, dividing drama and texts in practice. These three components support students progressions through the course and enable them to build on their knowledge and understanding through the course.

Assessment at Key Stage 4

GCSE Drama AQA 8261

Overview Focus
Component 1 – Understanding Drama
written exam: 1hour 45 minutes
40% of GCSE
Open book
80 marks
  • Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre
  • Study of one set play from a choice of nine
  • Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers

Section A: multiple choice (4 marks)

Section B: four questions on a given extract from the set play chosen (44 marks)

Section C: one question (from a choice) on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatre production (32 marks)

 

Overview Focus
Component 2 – Devising Drama (practical)
80 marks
40% of GCSE
  • Process of creating devised drama
  • Performance of devised drama (students may contribute as performer or designer)
  • Analysis and evaluation of own work

Devising log (60 marks)

Devised performance (20 marks)

 

Overview Focus
Component 3 – Texts in practice (practical)
40 marks
20% of GCSE
    • Performance of two extracts from one play (students may contribute as performer or designer)

    Performance of Extract 1 (20 marks) and Extract 2 (20 marks)

     

    Careers

    The skills you gain from doing drama can lead to careers such as performing arts, media, actor, theatre manager, media producer to name a few.

    Useful Resources and Revision Support

    • GCSE Drama AQA