A2 Drama & Theatre Studies

A2 Drama & Theatre Studies
Level: AS/A2

Awarding Body: EDEXCEL

Course Content:
'Drama' is the word used to refer to written play texts intended for performance, as well as to original work devised in workshop conditions and any material such as photos, poetry, short stores, which may have inspired such work. 'Theatre' is the word used to refer to a complete audience-centred experience, which integrates actors' performances with production elements - set, lighting, sound costume, props - in order to communicate the central values of the 'drama' effectively.

You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, either in a performing or production role. You will write about drama and develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic. The course will involve taking part in productions as well as studying plays, playwrights and theatre practitioners.

A range of approaches will be covered. Issue-based devised work will happen in groups; the process will be recorded and evaluated individually and used as reference in the final written paper. Practical exercises will be done on texts studied applying a variety of approaches from different theatre practitioners. Rehearsal work will be undertaken for performance, directed by members of staff with the opportunity for you to take responsibility for organising your own rehearsal time.

Assessment:
The course is divided into four units. AS will involve Units 1 and 2 and A2 level students will study all four.

AS

Unit 1: Exploration of Drama & Theatre 20%

The study of at least two plays by one or more playwrights with exploration notes (max 3000 words). This may also include looking at the work of notable theatre practitioners and companies. A review of live theatre, which can be a production of a play studied.

Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance 30%

Section A: Students will present a monologue or duologue or will contribute as a designer. Students will produce concept notes for external examiner.
Section B: Students will contribute to a performance of a published play by an established writer as a performer or designer/ technician.

A2

Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance 22.5%

Students will create an ORIGINAL piece of theatre in groups of 3-6. Research, the development process, performance and supporting written evidence form equal parts of the assessment.

Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context (Written Exam) 27.5%

Section A & B: Study of a set play from a choice of 3 from the standpoint of a director.
Section C: Study, research and see a live production of a play from a given period. Evaluate the live performance and relate this to an understanding of the original production conditions. This period must be different from the period of the play chosen for sections A and B.

Assessment Objectives:
AO1: Demonstrate the application of performance and/or production skills through the realisation of drama and theatre.
AS: 30% A2 40%
AO2: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of practical and theoretical aspects of drama and theatre using appropriate terminology. This is externally assessed.
AS: 30% A2:20%
AO3: Interpret plays from different periods and genres.
AS: 30% A2 30%
AO4: Make crucial and evaluative judgements of live theatre.
AS 10% A2 10%

Progression:
This course will combine with any other AS/A2 level successfully. It is particularly useful if you are considering a career which will require confident and articulate verbal presentation, as Drama and Theatre Studies develops self-confidence and the ability to speak in public with the clarity and vitality of expression to gain interest and be understood.

Complimentary Subjects:
Popular combinations with a possible career focus include:
- Art, English and History AS/A2 level - leading to specialising in theatre design (set, costume, make-up).
- Sociology, English, Philosophy AS/A2 level - leading to social science.
- Maths, Electronics, Physics or Photography AS/A2 level or Music Technology - leading to technical theatre.
- Business Studies, Economics and Psychology AS/A2 level - leading to arts management and administration.
- Dance and Music/Music Technology - leading to performing arts.