Drama Post 16

Drama

Entry Guidance:

5 GCSEs at grades A* - C, or equivalent, including English Language and a grade B in GCSE Drama.  The course will only run if a sufficient number of students express an interest.

Syllabus Outline:

Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre - Internally assessed
40% of the total AS marks 20% of the total GCE marks

This unit introduces students to the content of plays written for the theatre. They will learn how to analyse plays in a variety of ways so that they become familiar with the way written plays can be interpreted for realisation in performance. This internally assessed unit requires students to explore two contrasting play texts, chosen by the centre, in a practical and active way. At least one of the plays must be explored in the light of a recognised theatre practitioner. A set of Exploration Notes must be submitted. Students are also required to experience a live theatre performance and submit an evaluation.

AS Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance - Externally assessed
60% of the total AS marks 30% of the total GCE marks

This is an externally assessed unit. The first section requires students to offer either a monologue or duologue. The second section requires students to contribute to a performance of a professionally published play by a known writer.

Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance - Internally assessed
40% of the total A2 marks 20% of the total GCE marks

This unit requires the creation of a unique and original piece of theatre. The knowledge and understanding gained in the AS units can now be applied to a created production. Students will be assessed on both the process of creation and the finished product in the form of a performance to an invited audience. Students will be assessed on the research and development of their work as well as the final performance in front of an identified audience. They are also required to complete an evaluation on both the process and performance of their work.

Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context - 2 hour and 30 minute written paper
60% of the total A2 marks 30% of the total GCE marks

This externally examined written unit requires the detailed study of one set play text and one prescribed historical period of theatrical development. This externally assessed unit takes the form of a 2 hour and 30 minute written paper in three sections. Sections A and B require students to explore one play, from a choice of three set play texts, from the point of view of a director in both an academic and practical way. In Section C a selection must be made of one from a choice of three historic periods of theatre history.

The aims of the course are:

  • develop an interest and enjoyment in drama and theatre both as participants and as informed members of an audience, fostering an enthusiasm for and critical appreciation of the subject.
  • develop an understanding and appreciation of the significance of social, cultural and historical influences on the development of drama and theatre.
  • experience a range of opportunities to develop a variety of dramatic and theatrical skills.
  • enable students to grow creatively and imaginatively in both devised and scripted work integrating theory and practice through their understanding of critical concepts and the use of specialist terminology.

General Comments

This course is designed to meet the expressed needs of University Drama Departments and provides an ideal grounding for students wishing to pursue a vocation in Drama and The Arts.