Examining Body: Edexcel

Level: GCSE A-G

 

You should take this course if you want to study a subject that is both practical and creative. You should study this course if you enjoy experimenting with, and creating, different pieces of work for performance and enjoy working in a close knit group. As well as developing an understanding of what it is like to be in others’ shoes, you will have the chance to play many different parts in many different, imaginary situations. You will have the opportunity to create your own work as well as look at plays written by other people. You will enjoy this course if you want to develop your improvisation and acting skills to a higher level, or if you want to see a script come to life on stage. This course will also give you the opportunity to express your feelings and ideas about a range of different issues, building up your confidence, problem solving and communication skills.

 

There are a number of different things you can go on to do with this qualification. You could take an AS or A Level in Drama and Theatre Studies, or a Vocational A Level in Performing Arts; you could take a BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in Performing Arts. You may also wish to go into a job where it is useful to have had experience of drama and the skills it develops. This might include retail, travel and tourism, marketing or any career which involves meeting people face to face. The study of drama can help you develop transferable skills which you can take into any career or job.

 

The course is divided into three units. Unit 1 and 2 are coursework units and unit 3 is a final drama performance. The programme of study taught during the two years will focus on the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to complete assessments in all three units. You will develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to explore theme based work, to explore different play texts and to perform a devised or scripted pieces to different types of audiences.

 

 

At the end of the two years you can achieve a GCSE grade A* - G in Drama.

 

Assessments:

There are three formal assessments in drama. These are:

Assessment for Unit 1(30%) – a practical exploration of a specific theme plus 2000 word documentary evidence. This takes place during a controlled test over a period of 6 hours. This is internally set and internally marked.

Assessment for Unit 2 (30%) – a practical exploration of a play text plus 2000 word documentary evidence and written response to a live performance. This takes place during a controlled test over a period of 6 hours. This is internally set and internally marked.

Assessment for Unit 3 (40%) – a devised or scripted performance to an audience which includes a visiting examiner. This is externally marked by the visiting examiner