Sixth Form Handbook 2022-24

DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES

Course content and structure Component 1 - Theatre Workshop: Pupils will participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a text chosen from a list supplied by WJEC/Eduqas. The piece must be developed using the techniques and working methods of either an influential practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Component 2 - Text in Action: Candidates will be assessed on acting. Pupils will participate in the creation, development and performance of two pieces of theatre based on a stimulus supplied by WJEC/Eduqas. • A devised piece using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company (both different from that chosen for Component 1) • An extract from a text in a different style chosen by the pupil • Candidates are also required to produce a process and evaluation report within one week of completion of the practical work. Candidates must realise their performance live for a visiting examiner. Those choosing design must also give a 5-10 minute presentation of their design to the examiner. Component 3 - Text in Performance: Sections A and B: This is an ‘open book’ written examination. Candidates will respond to two questions based on two different texts, one pre-1956: THE TROJAN WOMEN by Euripides, and one post-1956: ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF AN ANARCHIST by Dario Fo. Section C: This is a ‘closed book’ part of the written examination. Candidates will be required to respond

to an extract of text printed on the examination paper. A question based on a specific extract from THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME by Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens. Details of the 10-15 minute extract will be released during the first week of March of the final year in which the examination is to be taken. Assessment overview Component 1 : Internally assessed, externally moderated: 20% Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have the ability, drive, commitment and enthusiasm to study this challenging subject at A-Level. Value of wider theatre appreciation It is essential for this course that candidates have prior experience of seeing a broad range of theatre from a variety of theatre sources; for example, pupils will have visited productions by the Royal National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Regional Repertoire, the Fringe or Commercial Theatre. Component 2 : Externally assessed: 40% Component 3 : Externally assessed: 40% Other notes

University and careers links An A-Level qualification in Drama and Theatre Studies can lead to a wide variety of interesting study options at degree level. Universities and drama schools now cater for a number of permutations; for example, the following full-time, three-year degrees might be of interest: • Drama, BA (Hons), Bristol/Manchester/Leeds/Exeter

• Acting, BA (Hons), LAMDA/ RADA/Guildhall • Directing, BA (Hons), Rose Bruford College • Modern Drama Studies, BA (Hons), Brunel University

19