Why study Drama?
- This course enables learners to develop their creativity and performance skills, alongside research and theoretical understanding of the art form.
- Learners will be introduced to a wide range of theatrical styles and contexts as they explore plays practically, create innovative theatre and develop their skills as a performer, designer and director.
Why study Drama at Solihull Sixth Form College?
- Learners will have the opportunity to meet and work with theatre professionals as well as trainers from universities and drama schools.
- A highly popular and valuable part of the course is the programme of trips we arrange to see a variety of live theatre performances. These trips are compulsory for the written exam (Unit 1) and are likely to take place in the evening.
- Students learn through experience, seeing theatre and making theatre for themselves. They will work independently with others and on their own to create original pieces and to explore existing scripts and the ideas of prescribed practitioners. In so doing they will develop in confidence and as performers, designers and directors.
- Collaboration will be at the heart of their learning with occasional lectures, workshops from theatre professionals and student presentations. All parts of the course are supported by handouts and guides.
Course Outline
Unit 1: Drama and Theatre
The study of two set plays from different genres and periods and evaluation of live theatre.
Unit 2: Creating Original Drama
The performance of a group devised play, exploring the methods of a prescribed practitioner.
Unit 3: Making Theatre
The practical exploration of three extracts, each taken from a different play, the third extract to be performed in the style of a prescribed practitioner.
Assessment
Component 1: Written exam (3 hours: 3 Questions). Marked by AQA – 40%
Component 2: Practical Coursework – Working notebook (40 marks), Devised performance (20 marks). Marked by teacher and moderated by AQA – 30%
Component 3: Practical Coursework – Reflective report on the performance of three extracts (20 marks), Performance of Extract 3 (40 marks). Marked by AQA – 30%
The two practical units require students to work intensively in a group and to take part in independent rehearsals at the end of the College day. Learners are also required to write extended reflective reports during the process of working on their practical exams. These will need to be submitted in draft form to the teacher for advice and assessment, to ensure learners attain their full potential.
Examining Board – AQA.
Special Entry Requirements
Learners need not necessarily have studied Drama to GCSE level, but for those who have, grade 4 or above is required. A real interest and commitment to seeing and taking part in Theatre is essential. In addition, standard A level entry requirements apply.
Prohibited Options
Drama and Music cannot be studied together, as they share compulsory rehearsal time.
What do our learners go on to do?
This course inspires learners to become independent thinkers with the skills they need to go on to higher education, whether that is to study a course in drama and theatre or another subject. Learners will develop skills essential not just for drama but applicable to a wide range of higher education subjects and the workplace; such as collaborative, analytical and research skills. Learners will grow in confidence and maturity as they successfully realise their own ideas, learn to evaluate objectively and develop a sound appreciation of the influences that cultural and social contexts can have on theatrical works. Higher education institutions value and respect the skills this qualification gives students. The AQA specification was developed in collaboration with universities, incorporating the approach they take with drama and theatre undergraduates into the A level qualification, so that learners will be really well prepared for the demands of university and beyond.
Cost Implications
Transport costs for theatre trips are subsidised by the College, but learners are expected to pay for the cost of tickets and some travel. Learners will be watching a range of professional productions and will be working with theatre professionals, but it may not be face to face. There are likely to be between four and six trips during the two-year course.
Complementary Subjects or Enrichment Courses
Learners are able to build a programme of study which spans a range of varied and complementary A level subjects at the College. Learners are particularly encouraged to take part in additional performance enrichment opportunities to enable them to extend their knowledge and understanding of theatre and to polish their skills in readiness for the demands of A level practical exams.
This information is correct for September 2024 entry.