DRA2 (Level 2 Drama)

Length of Course: Full year

Recommendations:

All students are welcome to join Level 2 Drama, however Level 1 Drama is a recommended prerequisite, as the Level 2 course builds on skills and knowledge developed in the Level 1 course. Students who enjoy storytelling, working collaboratively and being creative are well suited to Drama. Students will be required to commit to the course by attending regularly and applying a strong work ethic as most assessments are group based and involve public showcase performances. 

Course Content:

The course will focus on developing drama acting technique skills, practical application of the elements and conventions of drama creation through script writing, responding to live performances and investigating theatre forms. 

Performance skills: Students will build on their prior performance knowledge and develop acting techniques via practical workshops and script based work using the Stanislavsky method of text and character analysis, culminating in a public performance to a live audience of a full length production.

Devising/ Writing skills: Students will explore a range of script writing processes and work with the elements and conventions of Drama to create and craft an original script suitable for live performance.

Theatre Form/ History: Students will study the Theatre Period- Elizabethan Theatre and demonstrate understanding of the form through public performance of selected scenes at the annual 'Shakespeare in the Garden' outdoor event.

Respond to live performance: There will be a number of opportunities throughout the year for students to watch professional live theatre. Written support materials are required for all practical assessments and this reflection and analysis work all contributes to the development of skills of theatre analysis and critique. 

Note: Technical Standards in Lighting/ Costume/ Design for example can be undertaken via Individual Education Programs personally designed for students via discussion and negotiation with the HOD Drama.

Methods of Assessment:

There will be FIVE Achievement Standard assessments, four of which are internal and one external. 

All practical performance assessments will be presented as public showcase events for an invited audience. All assessments are filmed for marking and moderation purposes. Progress is measured by videoing practical tasks and through peer critique and teacher feedback. All practical assessments also have a written support materials component.

Contact Person: Mike Hudson - hudsonm@waihekehigh.school.nz