Drama - Miss B Francis (Subject Leader: Drama )
GCSE Drama is all about...
understanding what it is like to put yourself in somebody else’s shoes. You will play many parts in different imaginary situations. You will have the opportunity to create your own work as well as look at plays written by other people.
The Course in Two Acts....
Act One: Practical Performance Work (60% of the final mark)
Coursework, worth 60%, involves practical performance work. The 60% constitutes two pieces of assessed practical work. For each piece of practical work you will receive a preparation mark, and a final performance mark. You will have to present a variety of performances in front of an audience, and a moderator will be present at your final performance in Year 11. As part of your preparation you will be expected to attend at least two rehearsals after school each week; this counts as homework! Over the two years, you will do several pieces of practical coursework – only your two best marks will go towards your final grade.
Act Two: Written Examination (40% of the final mark)
The written examination is worth 40% of the final mark. The examination will involve answering two essay questions out of three: practical work completed during the course, study and performance of a scripted play and study of a live theatre production seen. You will be required to watch at least one theatrical production in a local or West End theatre although more trips are on offer throughout the year. It is important to explain here that a Drama essay is very different from an English essay. You will need to learn a new essay writing technique over the two years which is directed at analysing practical performance. If you apply yourself in this vital area, the marks are there for the taking, but you must be prepared to work hard. Please note that Drama lessons will focus on written work as well as practical work.
Will You Enjoy This Course?....
YES – If you want to study a subject that is both practical and academic.
YES – If you like performing your script and analysing your performance in written form.
YES – If you enjoy working as part of a team and you want to develop your acting skills.
What Other Skills Might You Develop?....
As well as acquiring the skills involved in creating and performing Drama, you will also acquire skills in working with others, problem solving and communication. You will find that Drama will help you feel more self-confident and prepare you to deal with a range of different people and situations. But most importantly, you will also gain a firm understanding of theatre as an art form, explored through both practical and written work.
What Next?....
There are many things you can go on to do with a GCSE in Drama. You could go on to take an AS and maybe an A2 level in Drama and Theatre Studies, or even a Level 3 BTEC Certificate in Performing Arts.
You may wish to take a GCSE in Drama for its own sake, perhaps to form a basis of a future interest, or as a part of a range of other subjects. Alternatively, you might wish to go into a job where it is useful to have had experience of Drama, or where you will need some skills developed during the course. These might include careers in such fields as journalism, travel and tourism, sales and marketing, retail, or any career that involves meeting people face to face. The study of Drama can help you develop transferable skills that you can take into any career.