KS4 DRAMA

 

Course Description

The course is a lot of fun. Units of work cover topics including Comedy, Physical Theatre and Script Interpretation. You will also take part in several performances and see plays at the Theatre. The course is also different to other GCSEs because of the type of skills that you will develop. You will become a skilled performer, writer and director. You will develop a wide knowledge of current issues in society as these form the basis of much of our work. You will become a confident speaker able to address large groups of people. You will gain a lot of experience in teamwork, problem solving and communication. These are qualities that employees value. DO NOT TAKE GCSE DRAMA TO AVOID DOING WRITTEN WORK! For units 1 and 2 you will be required to write a portfolio of evidence. Each will be the equivalent of 3000 words. You will write scripts, evaluations, diaries, storyboards and play reviews. This is interesting and varied work but it requires commitment and effort.

Syllabus/Board :- The syllabus is EDEXCEL no. 1699

Examination Details :- The examination is split into three sections:-

Unit 1 - This is a six hour workshop. This is 30% of your final mark. Your teacher will give you a number of improvisation tasks based on a variety of stimulus materials. This could include songs, poems, photographs, video material, artwork or prose. The work will also involve discussions about the topics. You will also be asked to evaluate your own work and that of other students. You will then be asked to write a portfolio of evidence.

Unit 2 - This is the second six hour workshop. This is 30% of your final mark. You will be given a section of a play to interpret. After improvisations based on the script you will stage the section of the play from memory using a variety of Drama techniques. You will be expected to show understanding of both the play and the characters. You will then be asked to write a portfolio of evidence.

Performance Paper - You will be placed in a group and asked to make a piece of Drama.

This is 40% of your final mark. You will be expected to invent an idea, improvise a script and perform the final piece to a visiting examiner. The play would usually be about 25 minutes in length. This project lasts for about 10 weeks.

Tier of Entry - There is no tier of entry system. All students are entered at the same level.

You will be graded from A* to G, with the results being released in August.

Links to further study - You can progress into further study in a variety of Performing Arts disciplines; progressing through both A Level and vocational courses.