KS5 GCE Drama
What will I learn?
A level Drama emphasises practical creativity alongside research and theoretical understanding. Students learn through experience, seeing theatre and making theatre for themselves. Students are introduced to a wide range of theatrical styles and contexts as they explore plays practically, devise and work on performances. Students choose to develop as a: • performer • designer (set, costume, puppets) • director • combination of these. Whichever option they choose, students will gain many invaluable skills, both theatrical and transferable, to expand their horizons.
How will I be assessed?
A Level – Component 1: Drama and theatre – Written Exam (3 hrs, open book) – 40% of the A level
- Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre. through the study of two set plays
- Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers.
- Section A: one question (from a choice) on one of the set plays (25 marks).
- Section B: one three part question on a given extract from the other set play (30 marks).
- Section C: one question (from a choice) on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatreproduction (25 marks).
A Level – Component 2 : Creating original drama – Written coursework & practical exam – 30% of A level
- Process of creating devised drama.
- Performance of devised drama (students may contribute as performer, designer or director). The devised piece must be influenced by the work and methodologies of one practitioner.
- Working notebook (40 marks – coursework)
- Devised performance (20 marks – practical performance)
A Level – Component 3: Making theatre – Practical exam & Written report – 30 % of A level
- Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts each taken from a different play.The methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to the final extract.
- The final extract is to be performed as a final assessed piece (students may contribute asperformer, designer or director). (40 marks – practical performance)
- Reflective written report analysing and evaluating theatrical interpretation of all threeextracts. (20 marks)
What are the entry requirements?
Drama GCSE grade C or above OR appropriate relevant Drama experience assessed by audition where necessary. English GCSE at grade C or above.
NB: Students must also be willing to perform in front of others.
What are the costs?
The Drama department aims to offer you theatre trips and workshops each year at a cost to cover travel and ticket for events. All students will be required to attend at least one theatre trip in order to prepare for the written examination and to inform their understanding of theatre. There is a rich diversity of activities to get involved in from workshops, performing arts tuition and performances. Students are encouraged to take part in running events and activities in Drama to support their experience. All students are required to be involved in at least one extracurricular activity.
Future Opportunities
Higher education institutions value and respect the skills drama and theatre qualifications give students.By incorporating the approach universities take with drama and theatre undergraduates into this A level, students will be really well prepared for the demands of university and beyond. Students of Drama and theatre develop skills that are not just essential for drama but applicable to a wide range of higher education subjects and in the workplace. This course refines students’ collaborative skills, their analytical thinking and their approach to research. Students grow in confidence and maturity as they successfully realise their own ideas. They learn to evaluate objectively and develop a sound appreciation of the influences that cultural and social contexts can have on decision making. Whatever the future holds, students of A level Drama and Theatre emerge with a toolkit of transferable skills preparing them for their next steps.
Who should I contact for additional information?
Course contact: hayley.wiltshire@biddenham.beds.sch.uk
Exam board information: AQA
