GCSE Drama

TEACHER IN CHARGE: Mrs E Lee EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel WEBSITE ADDRESS:  www.edexcel.org.uk 

Drama Information Video

What will I study?

Students will study how to use the drama strategies, medium and elements to explore themes and selected texts. In the practical examination they will devise and perform a created piece of theatre in response to a set stimulus. Technical aspects of performance will also be studied in an integrated way throughout the course.

How many pieces of coursework are required?

There will be a range of pieces of coursework spread over two years.

In the practical controlled tests in Years 10 and 11, students will be set a variety of tasks to assess their creativity, group skills and understanding of how the strategies, medium and elements can be used to explore themes, text, eras and genres. Their outcomes will be recorded and analysed in the written controlled tests to evidence the extent of their knowledge and the depth of their understanding.

The 60% non-exam assessment marks are made up as follows:

●      20% for marks to assess the creation and development of ideas to communicate meaning for theatrical performance;

●      30% for marks used to apply theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live performance

●      10% for the analysis and evaluation of students' own work.

Therefore 60% of the marks will be used to assess practical elements of the course.

How many examinations will I take?

One exam worth 40% assessment by written examination

When does the coursework have to be complete?

 By the end of March in Year 11.

What qualities do I need to be successful?

Talented drama students have a range of qualities that allow them to work with focus and concentration whilst experimenting and exploring their creative ideas. They are always patient and hardworking and enjoy working collaboratively and independently. To be successful in this subject you will need to be an imaginative and resourceful student who builds an excellent rapport with others.

What sort of teaching styles are typically used?

The most exciting thing about the drama experience is the wide variety of teaching styles used in the classroom. Teaching focuses on the interpretation of text through performance and the practical use of drama strategies, medium and elements to explore selected themes. In devised theatre workshops students use improvisation techniques to inspire their playwriting ideas. The technical components of the course are delivered in an integrated way, with opportunities for the creative use of costume, make-up, set design, lighting and sound. Students are taught to write critical reviews of live performance in response to seeing A Level performance work. 

Will I have any choice in terms of the subject areas I study?

 All students will have a great deal of choice when it comes to the direction they take with their devised work, how they choose to explore the given themes and their approaches to characterisation, design and staging.

Is there anything else you think I should know about this subject?

Any student thinking of studying Post 16 Performing Arts is strongly advised to take GCSE Drama because the course is an excellent foundation for Post 16 work. Talk to other students about why they enjoy GCSE drama. 

This is a challenging and stimulating course, which will provide you with many opportunities to develop your talent to the full.

Please talk to Mrs Lee if you have any further questions.