AQA
Why Study Drama and Theatre?
Drama and Theatre is an exciting and dynamic course particularly suited to those students who have enjoyed GCSE Drama, or who have a genuine interest in theatre and performance. You will study how drama is produced, what plays mean and how theatre is created by a production team, to convey that meaning to an audience. You will become actors, designers, technicians and directors. In addition, the course will engage you in a range of styles and you will explore the contributions made by key practitioners who have influenced modern theatre.
30% of the course is based on the practical aspects of drama, but our approach to the study of the plays for the written paper is also practical and kinaesthetic. Drama is a fun addition to your day and as a part of the course, opportunities exist to attend live productions and engage in multiple workshop activities.
Alongside the study of the course, Drama and Theatre A Level also develops skills that all employers want. It teaches evaluation, interpretation and analysis. It builds presentation skills, confidence and communication. It teaches you to work in a team and it encourages you to think in alternative ways. It provides you with problem solving abilities and empathy. It aids literacy skills and helps with wider reading, and through the various texts and periods studied, an understanding of politics and society is also heightened.
What is the course structure?
COMPONENT 1 - DRAMA AND THEATRE (WRITTEN) involves the study of two set plays and the analysis and evaluation of live theatre makers. It is assessed through a 3 hour open book written exam and contributes 40% of the final A level mark.
COMPONENT 2: CREATING ORIGINAL DRAMA (PRACTICAL) focuses on the process of creating devised drama, with the performance of a devised piece influenced by the work and methodologies of one prescribed practitioner. It is assessed through a working notebook (40 marks) as well as the devised performance itself (20 marks). This component contributes 30% of the final A level mark and is marked by teachers and moderated by AQA.
COMPONENT 3 – MAKING THEATRE (PRACTICAL) involves students undertaking a practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts, each taken from a different play. The final extract is performed as a final assessed piece (40 marks). Students must also produce a reflective report, analysing and evaluating the theatrical interpretation of all three extracts (20 marks). This component contributes 30% of the final A level mark and is marked by AQA.
What are the entry requirements?
It is a distinct advantage for potential A level students to have gained at least a grade 6 studying Drama at GCSE level. More importantly however potential students should have an interest in the theatre and a willingness to perform in front of an audience.