|
Introduction
Drama combines many elements such as imagination, creativity, English literature, technical knowledge and life skills in a stimulating course. It is an ideal course for confidence building, as well as encouraging a love of theatre and sharpening critical awareness.
Examination Board: Edexcel
There is no formal examination. All work is practical, recorded on video, supported by detailed portfolio work
Paper 1
Two units of practical drama
Unit 1
- using drama to explore themes and issues in response to at least two different texts chosen from different times and cultures. This is studied in the second half of the spring term in Y10
Unit 2
- exploring a play from the point of view of directors, performers and/or designers. This is studied in the autumn term of Y11
During these two examination workshop sessions, students will take part in six assessed sessions, at the end of which, they will receive an official grade, which (together with portfolio work) forms 60% of the final GCSE Drama grading.
A portfolio of documentary evidence supports units 1 and 2. Paper 1 is marked internally and then externally moderated.
Paper 2
A performance: 40%
This consists of a practical examination of a performing [or technical support] rôle within the context of the performance of a play to an audience. Paper 2 is externally assessed during the second half of the Spring term in Y11. Students are normally given approximately 6 to 8 weeks preparation time for the performance, which is externally moderated (an examiner from the Edexcel examination board will watch the performance).
For the Performance paper, students are asked to work in groups of between 3 and 9 to perform a play that is either devised or scripted.
The date for the Performance Paper 2 is agreed in collaboration with the school and the external moderator and is arranged in March/April of Year 11.
Homework.
Much of the set homework will be writing up an assessment/evaluation of what was achieved in lessons using the correct theatrical vocabulary and approaches as outlined in the syllabus ready for inclusion in the portfolios.
Homework will also involve line learning and preparation for practical work.
Trips and Extracurricular activities
Students will be expected to participate in frequent theatre trips, some of which will be explored as part of portfolio work. As well as acting rôles, GCSE students will be expected to employ the practical knowledge they will gain in lessons of theatre practice [lighting, sound, make-up, costume etc] by participating in different rôles in the school productions. This will develop their self-confidence and team building skills as well as reinforcing learning.
Beyond GCSE
This course provides an excellent grounding for GCE Theatre Studies and A level English literature. It develops the life skills necessary for confident self-presentation in business, teaching, law practice, medicine etc
'Psst! It's no secret that we now can offer you the option of GCSE drama!' |
