Drama
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Subject Leader: Mr. A. Rose
Subject Teacher: Mr. A. Luscombe
AIMS
KEY STAGE 3 CURRICULUM
Drama at St Anne’s is unique within the curriculum, not only because it teaches pupils about cultures and histories, but because it can also play an integral role in personal and social education. We aim to develop creative expression and communication whilst engendering a sense of independence and confidence, promoting curiosity and engagement in both the theoretical and performance elements of Drama. Pupils are encouraged to use their initiative and embrace challenges by persevering and finding creative solutions – learning self-awareness and group sensitivity.
Pupils will be introduced to various elements of drama and performance. These include improvisation, characterisation, vocalisation, movement and script work. These elements are taught through a variety of themes, subjects and styles such as Shakespeare, Commedia Dell’arte and mime.
- Knowledge - the process of drama explored in class activity and group work
- Skills - the use and presentation of works produced by the students in class activity and group work
- Understanding - the analysis and discussion of the student's own and others work
Pupils are assessed every half term to consolidate learning and monitor progress.
KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM:
The course is assessed in three stages:
- Component 1 - Devising a performance piece (Course weighting: 40%)
- Component 2 - Performing 2 key extracts from a play to a visiting examiner (Course weighting: 20%)
- Component 3 - Written exam (Course weighting: 40%)
Component 1: comprises of devising an original performance based on a stimulus (selected by the centre). Students will be in groups and will perform their pieces to a live audience. They will be expected to keep a logbook and respond to 6 questions set out by the exam board. This Logbook can be in written, audio or video format
Component 2: Comprises of students learning 2 extracts from a play (chosen by the centre). They will perform 2 of the following: monologue, duologue or in small groups from the chosen play. These performances will be to an external examiner. No written work is required for this component.
Component 3: Comprises of learning about and understanding a set text prescribed by the exam board. They must be aware of how this text is conveyed on the stage from an actors, directors and designers point of view. There will be questions in the written exam based on an extract from this set text. In addition, students will experience live performances and be expected to answer questions in the exam about an aspect of that performance. The written exam is 1 ½ hours long.
More information is available here
KEY STAGE 5 CURRICULUM:
A Level Drama is assessed in three stages:
- Component 1: Devising - Devised performance and accompanying portfolio (Internally Assessed) 40%
- Component 2: Text in Performance - Performance of two key extracts from two performance texts. (Externally assessed) 20%
- Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice - Written examination (Externally assessed) 40%
More information is available here
USEFUL WEBSITES
TRIPS & EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Pupils have the opportunity to perform in extra-curricular activities such as Drama club, school productions, assemblies and talent evenings.
There are opportunities to attend trips to watch live Theatre at KS3 and KS4, which in turn equips pupils with the necessary tools to respond to the requirements of the ‘Live Theatre’ element of the written exam at GCSE.
