Students will develop their practical skills as makers and performers of drama; extend their understanding of drama and theatre; and learn to use research, exploration and analysis to form strong written responses to texts and practical work. The course provides a foundation for further study or a career in film or theatre and also essential skills to support public speaking, presenting, team-leading, problem-solving, creative thinking and self-expression. It will demonstrate to a future employer, educator or trainer that you have a broad skill set and are a rounded and resilient individual with an aptitude for creative, practical and theoretical work Qualities and skills required: You
Drama at A Level teaches and encourages students to be independent theatre makers with the knowledge and skills to progress to higher education. Our A Level Drama qualification emphasises practical creativity as well as 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 (lighting, sound, 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.
Component 1: Drama and Theatre, written exam (open book, 3hrs) – 40% (externally assessed)
The exam has three sections that covers the following:
- Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre
- Study of two set plays, one chosen from List A, one chosen from List B
- Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers
Component 2: Creating original drama, practical exam (working notebook) – 30% (internally assessed)
Component 2 is a practical exam that makes up 30% of the final grade. Students are assessed on their process of creating and performing a devised drama influenced by the work and methodologies of one prescribed practitioner. In the exams students can choose to contribute as a performer, designer or director.
Component 3: Making theatre, practical exam and reflective report – 30% (internally assessed)
Making up 30% of the final grade students must explore and interpret three extracts taken from different plays. Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 3 and will be performed by students for their final piece as a performer, designer or director. Students will also need to show their understanding through a reflective report by analysing and evaluating theatrical interpretation of all three extracts.