DRAMA

Specification: AQA Drama (8261) 

The new AQA GCSE Drama course is made up of both practical and written components, 40% is examined and 40% is coursework based. Written work accounts for around 70% of the course marks, with the remaining 30% coming from practical performance.

Unit 1: Written Paper - 40%

Unit 1: Written Paper - 40%

 This is an externally set and marked paper that is taken at the end of Year 11. The three sections are as follows:

A)      Multiple choice – a test of your knowledge of technical theatre and job roles in the theatre industry.

B)      Set Play – a description, explanation and analysis of your own design and acting choices for the play text studied.

C)    Theatre Production seen – an analysis and evaluation of a professional production focussing on either acting or technical elements such as lights, sound, set or costume design.

All sections of the paper are a direct response to personal experience of the course and are continuously prepared for and revised during the course. 

Unit 2: Devising Drama (practical) – 40%

This is an internally assessed and externally moderated component. There are two sections that make up the 80 marks:

A)      Devising log -  a record of your process – 60 marks 

B)      Devised performance – 20 marks

Unit 3: Texts in Practice - 20%

Candidates perform two extracts from a chosen play which are marked live by a visiting examiner.

What to expect?

The course is delivered in a highly practical way, so whilst much of the assessment is based in written work, the preparation for that is delivered through practical workshops and performances.

This course is a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable communication and presentation skills. Students must be prepared to devote a significant amount of time to rehearsing their assessment performances outside of the lessons. All GCSE students are expected to take some part in the school productions. Dedication and commitment are key. There will also be numerous trips and events organised over the three years to enhance students’ passion for theatre and to ensure that it is an exciting and rewarding course – there will be an additional cost for theatre trips and all students must attend in order to meet the assessment criteria.

What will it help me to do?

You will gain confidence, learn how to work with others and acquire valuable time management skills. Problem solving will be practised along with the ability to communicate effectively. These are all skills which will be crucial in your selecting and succeeding in whatever career you choose.

What can I do after GCSE Drama?

You could go on to take AS, A level Drama and Theatre Studies or BTec Performing Arts if you are keen to pursue a career in any aspect of the Performing Arts industries. Alternatively, you may wish to develop your transferable skills for any number of jobs where communication and cooperation are key, as well as presenting and preparing effectively. These include careers in every sector imaginable or any other career that involves interacting with people face-to-face. 

N.B. There is an additional cost for this course as we take several trips to the theatre.  This is expected to be in the region of £150 over the three year period and is dependent on whether we visit local theatres or travel further a-field.