The course consists of the practical exploration of a whole drama text and an evaluation and review of a live performance. Students also devise their own performances. There are three components: Devising, Performance from Text and Theatre Makers in Practice.  Students will have opportunities to engage imaginatively with varied drama texts, improvise and work individually and within a group.

HOW STUDENTS WILL STUDY

This course will offer both the academic study of drama texts and the development of practical performance skills.

Students will engage in a variety of drama activities, which can be used to deepen their understanding of drama form.  They will be required to study themes in whole texts such as J.B Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls.’ All students will be required to produce a portfolio on their devised group piece. They will prepare and perform two live pieces which include: monologue/ duologue and group performance.

Students will also strengthen their writing skills and drama evaluation skills in preparation for the Terminal Examination [Theatre Makers in Practice]. 

Students will develop a range of drama skills such as hot seating, narrating and thought tracking. They will gain an understanding of space, movement, lighting and vocals. 

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

  • Experienced and well qualified staff

  • State of the art performance spaces

  • Opportunities to watch a wide variety of different performances to encourage creativity and independent responses

  • Enrichment beyond the classroom (film and theatre visits)

  • Students will be expected to complete a performance audition to be successful in their acceptance on to the course

HOW STUDENTS WILL BE ASSESSED

Students are assessed through both practical and written internal assessments. There is a written examination paper at the end of the course.

Component 1: Devising 40%

  • Devise a piece of theatre from a stimulus, which is then performed

  • Record this process in a portfolio, answering 6 questions [1500 – 2000 words]                

  • Internal assessment / external moderation

Component 2: Performance from Text 20%

  • Two key extracts from one text prepared and performed. This can include: monologue/duologue /group performance                                       

  • External Assessment

Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice - 40%

  • Final Written Examination- 1 hour: 45 minutes

  • Section A – Study a text in depth and respond to a selected extract, answering questions on how to stage the play from the perspective of an actor, set designer or director.                      

  • Section B – Live Theatre Performance. Students review a live performance they have watched. All students may take 500 words of notes into the examination             

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Drama is an excellent course to promote literacy and practical skills. Students will gain confidence and excellent team work skills which they can apply to both the world of work and Higher Level studies.

More info:

Lead Teachers:

Ms S Bishop - sbishop01@hswv.co.uk

Mrs R Staunton - rstaunton@hswv.co.uk

  

 

Student Quote:

‘Drama gave me confidence and good communication skills’.

‘It gives you opportunities to play a wide range of different roles’.

‘It helps you in English as it helps me to understand characters and writers’ intentions’.