Drama

Subject Leader: Mrs Sarah Thompson

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What are we studying?

Students will study the AQA GCSE Drama course. Over the two years, students will take part in a variety of practical work.

The topics include :

Year 10

• Groups-an Introduction to GCSE Drama
• Genre-an exploration of Greek Theatre and Antigone
• Acting-an introduction to scripted work leading to a performance
• Theatre in Education-an exploration of the genre, leading to a controlled assessment performance to year 7. There is usually a visit from a theatre company to the school as well.
• Written exam preparation-this takes place at various points during the year
• Study and performance of a scripted play-leading to a theatre visit and controlled assessment performance to an audience

Year 11

• Devised thematic work-leading to a controlled assessment performance to an audience
• Acting-a final controlled assessment performance of a scripted play
• Written exam preparation-leading to the final written exam

How are we assessed?

Controlled Assessments

Students must complete two controlled assessments which make up 60% of their final mark. The GCSE course allows students to complete more than two and put their best two marks forward. Controlled assessments take place in the Spring and Summer term of year 10 and the Autumn and Spring term of year 11.Students are marked on both their contribution and involvement in group work as well as the final presentation.

The Written Paper

All practical work feeds into the written paper and students gain practise at this throughout the course. The written exam makes up 40% of the final grade and is taken in the Summer term of year 11.

How are we grouped?

Students are always taught in mixed ability classes. During lesson time, students work in pairs, small groups and mixed gender groupings.

What homework are we expected to do?

Homework will be set each week and there will be a mixture of practical and written work. Students will be expected to rehearse and prepare outside lessons, for a practical performance, as well as keep a written record of their drama work. They will practise answering exam style questions after any controlled assessment performance. There will be research as preparation for practical work and students will have an AQA text book for revision purposes.

What can parents do to help?

Discuss with your child what has happened in their drama lesson and encourage them to complete any homework tasks set. Parents will be invited to watch controlled assessments. Theatre visits are also a valuable learning tool.