GCSE Drama
A new syllabus for the Drama course is now being introduced. The new course has a more practical base with coursework being removed and fewer texts being studied. The balance is now practical work (60%) and written papers (40%).
Who is this course for?
Drama is essentially a 'performance' art, so students who opt for this course should enjoy performing taking part in all aspects of a production and working in a PRACTICAL way , in groups. Performance work is both scripted and improvised, and students are examined on their own devised productions. However, students who opt for this subject should be aware that there is also a theory component to the course and homework is set each week.
Aims of course:
- to learn how to develop a character through a rehearsal process and present this successfully in performance using a range of staging and performance conventions
- to build on presentation skills developed at KS3, in particular, learn about different genres and performance styles
- to be able to discuss and evaluate how the sign system of theatre works, from the point of view of a director, performer and audience and the way in which meaning is communicated through drama
How will I be marked?
DR1 - Devised practical performance (Dec Year 11) Task 1: Devised performance (40%) Task 2: Devised performance report (20%)
DR2 - Performance from a text (May Year 11) (20%)
DR3 - Written examination (June Year 11) (20%) Task 1: Analysis of a text Task 2: Evaluation of practical work in DR2
What will I get out of it?
Students will be taken on several theatre visits throughout the course and they will be encouraged to accompany the group on as many of these visits as possible. Professional workshops are included in the course wherever possible in an effort to encourage students to see their studies in the wider context of media work and to help them understand the practical application of their studies within the industry. Students often progress to study the subject at AS and A level and we can boast several degree students and two qualified drama teachers and a television actress among our success!
Apart from qualifications, the main benefits of the course are what drama can do for you in the form of social skills and key skills. You will find you are required to negotiate, organise and lead within the group. You will gain confidence in those awkward situations, such as speaking to a group, giving a good account of yourself in interviews and coping with the unfamiliar. Industries and services often use role play in their training. In many areas, experience in drama is now a valid qualification to offer a prospective employer. It demonstrates a high level of self confidence and an ability to work as a team. Drama students also have to demonstrate a high level of commitment, self-motivation and independent study skills.
But have I got what it takes?
Most students find this a thoroughly enjoyable course. It requires not so much an ability to act (that can be taught) as a lively and enthusiastic interest in the subject. You must be willing to work with others and get involved. If you can do that, the rest will follow!
