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• To learn about the human condition through the exploration, experimentation and interpretation of diverse themes across time, culture and contexts.

• To gain further insight of themselves and others around them for a better awareness of how perspectives and empathy are crucial elements of tolerance and understanding.

• To develop students’ craft and unique voice to communicate meaningful and diverse ideas, opinions and thoughts through practical experimentation and exploration of creative processes and skills

• To develop interpersonal and intercultural skills as imaginative creators and collaborators. 

• To develop lifelong, internationally minded appreciation of the Arts.

• To develop critical thinking skills as informed, perceptive and analytical theatre-makers. 

• To understand. appreciate, and explore the relationship between theory and performance. 

• To understand how theatre can be used as a vehicle for change in our society with a focus on sustainable development and peace building.

What Drama Skills will the students develop?

• As part of the course students develop skills and understanding in:

• The exploration of themes, issues and concepts using sophisticated drama techniques and tools

• Devising of original material with clear intention and impact for an intended audience

• Directing scripted extracts from published plays

• Designing lighting, sound and multimedia

• Performing in scripts, devised work and on monologues

• Learning to use mask, puppets and props to communicate meaningful stories

• Exploring Asian theatre traditions

• Evaluate and reflect on process work and dramatic and design choices made in ongoing coursework 

(no end of year exam- coursework only)

What Personal Skills will be developed through mission aligned units of work?

• Interpersonal and intercultural understanding

• Peace building tools

• Sustainable Development heightened awareness

• Self and community wellbeing 

• Collaborative skills

• Concerned and committed qualities developed

• Communication skills

Content Overview

• Students will study:

  • The elements of practical drama

  • How to work with extracts from published plays as an actor, director, and designer

  • How to devise, develop, and structure, their own original dramatic material from stimuli such as short titles, poems, pictures, songs, historical events and stories

  • How to evaluate their contribution to the devising process and the success of the final piece

  • How to use staging and design as part of a dramatic performance

  • Individual and group performance skills and how they are applied to create character and communicate meaning to an audience

Assessment for Grade 9 and 10

Assessment 1: Knowledge and understanding repertoire (40%)

• The ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the possibilities of scripted drama, and how to interpret and realise it in a live performance.

Assessment 2: Devising (30%)

• The ability to collaboratively devise dramatic material and reflect on its effectiveness.

Assessment 3: Performance skills (30%)

• The ability to use acting skills in scripted and devised performances to communicate effectively to an audience

Benefits of taking High School Drama

• Drama is a creative and collaborative art form that promotes students to support and encourage others to express ideas, listen and participate actively with the content explored.

• Students have agency and choice around the materials, ideas, and issues they engage with. 

• Through the ongoing development of Drama as a safe space to share, experiment and perform, student wellbeing and belonging will be supported. This will also allow them to understand that the dignity and rights of people everywhere must be respected. 

• Through their engagement in productions, performance, excursions, and other curriculum based activities, students will be given real-world and transferable experiences. 

• Students will also begin to develop relationships with local theatre practitioners to grow their appreciation of values and traditions of different cultures. 

• Through valuing the work and stories of others, students will show empathy, compassion and respect for their peers and other creators.