A Level Drama
Studying Drama at A-level, offers students a rich and dynamic exploration of the performing arts. At AS and A2 students delve into the multifaceted world of dramatic expression, honing skills that extend beyond the stage. The course not only fosters creativity and self-expression but also cultivates critical thinking, empathy, and effective communication – essential life skills applicable in a diverse array of professions. Through the exploration of various styles, practitioners, theatre companies and theatrical texts, students develop a profound understanding of human behaviour, societal dynamics, and the power of storytelling, making Drama a compelling and intellectually rewarding discipline.
The appeal of Drama lies in its unique blend of artistic exploration and academic rigor. Whether engaging with classic plays, devising original performances, or dissecting the nuances of dramatic techniques, students are actively involved in the learning process. The subject fosters a sense of community and self-confidence, empowering students to articulate their perspectives and contribute meaningfully to the vibrant world of theatre and beyond.
AS Unit 1: Theatre Workshop
- Non-examined assessment
- Internally assessed
- 90 marks
- 24% of full A Level qualification
Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a chosen text. The piece must be developed using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Learners must produce a realisation of the performance or design, a creative log of their process, and an evaluation.
AS Unit 2: Text in Theatre
- Written examination, 1 hour 30 minutes
- Open book
- 60 marks
- 16% of full A Level qualification
Learners will answer a series of questions based on one performance text, selected from a list provided by the WJEC. Questions cover anyalsis and evaluation, and performances and design choices regarding individual characters and staging.
A2 Unit 3: Text in Action
- Non-examined assessment
- Externally assessed
- 120 marks
- 36% of full A Level qualification
Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of two pieces of theatre, based on a stimulus supplied by WJEC. The first piece will be a devised piece, using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company (a different practitioner or company to that chosen for Unit 1). The second piece is based on an extract from a text in a different style, chosen by the learner. Learners must realise their performance live for the visiting examiner. Learners choosing design must also give a non-assessed 5-10 minute presentation of their work and design choices to the examiner. Learners must produce a process and evaluation report within one week of completion of the practical work.
A2 Unit 4: Text in Performance
- Written examination, 2 hours 30 mins
- Open book
- 95 marks
- 24% of full A Level qualification
Learners will study two complete texts, and are able to take clean copies of these (no annotations) into the exam. Learners will answer a series of essay style questions on each text, considering factors such as direction, design, vocal and physical skill, as well as analysis and evaluation. Questions may focus on a sepcific extract from the text, as well as asking the learner to consider the text as a whole.