KS4

Drama GCSE

Term 1

Introduction to specification
Establishing working practices
Practical problem solving
Initial study of script
Theatrical style and conventions explored
Working together with other member of group
Learning basic procedures
Joining in and having a go
Learning to remember (both words and moves)

Term 2

Applying sessions learnt to a scripted project
Applying lessons learnt to an improvised project
Introduction to design aspects of costume, make-up, sound effects, set design and lighting
Staging, rehearsing and performing an extract of scripted performance
Staging and constructing, improvising and script writing leading to a performance.
Research reasons for and uses of theatre design

Term 3

Devised Theatre
Theatre in Education To use theatrical styles and conventions already studied to construct on original 'devised' performance piece - the theme chosen by the group.
To use knowledge and experience already gained to produce a piece of Theatre in Education to be performed for primary students

Term 4

Continued study of theatrical styles and conventions
Study of set text
Fully assessed practical performance
Theatre visit/production seen
Varied styles of work used to study set text incorporating at least one assessed performance
Performance by others watched analysed and reviewed

Term 5

Complete study of set texts
Piece of original performance work produced
Essay writing practice in preparation for written exam
Performance piece worked on for presentation to external moderator

Term 6

Final practical assessment project in style of students' choice
Revision of set texts for written exam
Completion of practical work to as high a standard as possible
Exam preparation completed

Key Skills

Listening
Speaking
Negotiation
Consideration
Leadership
Problem solving
Presentation
Analysis
Selection

Equipment

For all sessions clean trainers or bare feet are required (not socks)
Log book or note book needs to be kept for personal development record

Particular homework requirements

e.g. types of homework, length of homework
Time required for homework will vary. Learning lines can take many hours but is needed only when a performance project is being produced. Regular notes on progress and work covered need to be kept on a weekly by week basis

Assessments, exams, deadlines

Two practical assessments (60%) May Year 11
Written exam (2 essays) (40%) June Year 11
The two best practical projects from two different performances areas are counted. The choice is between: Scripted Acting, Improvisation, Theatre in Education, Dance Drama, Devised Theatre.
These pieces can be produced anytime between term 2 and term 6
Ways in which parents can help
Any theatrical experiences are useful. Visits to any live performance can help give ideas, understanding and interest

Lunchtime / after School coursework support sessions

Studio time is made available at lunchtimes and after school in the run up to practical performances. Top quality pieces require time spent by students working in addition to lesson times in the space where the assessment will take place (usually the Drama Studio)

Logging into the Ratton School Website

KS4