Higher Drama

DURATION

1 Year / 240 Hours

COURSEWORK

Performance 60% of award

EXAM

Question Paper 40% of award

COST

No Cost

What will you learn?

Higher Drama develops the candidate's knowledge and understanding of theatre, focusing on the skills of acting, directing and investigating in a variety of dramatic contexts.

The course consists of three units of work.

  • Investigative Drama - practical group work where a significant theme or issue is explored to create a performance piece. Individuals take on a director's responsibility for a section of the devised production, which is performed in front of an audience.

  • Study of a Text in its Theatrical Context - a predominantly practical study of a prescribed text from the perspective of actor and director, taking into account the historical and social context in which the play was written.

  • Contemporary Scottish Theatre - the study of at least three contemporary Scottish plays, looking at the social, political and religious dimensions, use of nostalgia and popular traditions and issues of gender.

Why do this course?

The course enables candidates to develop and use a range of complex drama skills and production skills. Candidates develop practical skills in creating and presenting drama, and knowledge and understanding of historical, social and cultural influences on drama. They analyse and evaluate how the use of self-expression, language and movement can develop their ideas for drama. They also develop critical-thinking skills as they investigate, develop and apply a range of complex drama skills and production skills.

What will you experience?

The course is taught through workshop situations, using pairs, groups and whole class work. Theory is taught through practical sessions and class work. Work in class is supported through the use of study guides, ICT and other digital media. Pupils will be involved in setting their own targets and evaluating their own contribution and others. They will be expected to keep a log of drama activities.

Key Facts

Everything you need to know before selecting this course

Homework

Homework will be set by the class teacher on a regular basis, this will be available on TEAMs. Activities set may include practice of a practical skill, preparation for assessment or research for an assignment.

Assessment

The Investigative Drama unit is assessed internally by the teacher. The other units are externally assessed by a written examination paper comprising of questions which focus on the prescribed text and on the trends and issues studied in Contemporary Scottish Theatre. The Acting exam is externally assessed by a visiting examiner.

  • Component 1 — question paper 40 marks

  • Component 2 — performance 60 marks

  • Total marks 100 marks

Pupils must be prepared to present their work to an audience.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Entry is at the discretion of the Principal Teacher Faculty, Performing Arts. However, as a guide:

  • Pass (A-C) at National 5 Drama

Progression and Employment

Everything you need to know about future pathways from this course

Progression

Advanced Higher Drama

Employment


Learner Experiences