Drama GCSE

Drama GCSE

Course Length

One-year.

The course

Drama is an immensely exciting subject leading to the understanding of a wide range of play texts; an awareness of the historical forces which shaped them; increased self and group awareness and, finally, creativity, self-confidence, self-discipline and communication. The subject is a perfect complement to English Literature and English Language; it is also an appropriate preparation for the former subject at A level as well as, of course, Theatre Studies. Full advantage is taken of the college’s proximity to London theatres, enabling us to take full account of section B of the examined unit. Overall, the course enables students to explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of drama and the theatre arts and that balance is maintained in the teaching itself, week by week, as students move between the practical and academic demands of the course.

What skills do I need?

You need an interest in performance and performing.

How is the course assessed?

The GCSE is composed of three components. Component 1 (Devising Drama), worth 40% of the final GCSE, is an opportunity for students to devise their own original piece of theatre and create a written portfolio to supporting evidence. In Component 2 (Performing from a Text), students will perform for a scripted extract for an external examiner. This is worth 20% of their GCSE grade. Component 3 is worth 40% of the GCSE course and takes the form of a written exam. It is an open- book written exam that tests your knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre. You will be tested on the play DNA by Dennis Kelly and you will be required to analyse and evaluate the work of live theatre makers. It lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.

Reading

DNA by Dennis Kelly

Exam Board and Specification Code

Eduqas C690QS

Richard Martin
Head of Department