AS Level Performance Studies

Performance Studies (AS and A Level)

PERFORMANCE STUDIES

AS and A Level (OCR)

Campus: Cheadle
(28.07.09)

Course overview

This specification gives candidates the opportunity to

develop a multi-disciplinary approach to the Performing

Arts as they expand their imagination, sensitivity and

artistic knowledge of dance, drama and music.

AS Level (year one)

Unit One

This unit includes skills-based workshops in individual art forms, in order to produce a short piece in dance, drama and music, and a longer piece that combines elements of all 3 art forms performed in a community venue. There is also a written commentary on the practical work.

Unit Two

Candidates study one work from each of two practitioners. The choice of work demonstrates broad trends in the output of that practitioner. Candidates need to be able to comment generally in a written examination on the relationship between the work studied and the practitioners output as a whole.

A Level (year two)

Unit Three

Candidates study nine extracts (three from dance, three from drama and three from music) from given topics, in detail for a written examination.

Unit Four

In this unit there are two performance assessments. One is a performance realisation based on one of the works studied in either unit two or three; the second is a student devised performance produced in response to a commission set by the exam board.

How you will learn

You will be taught by specialist staff. Many of the lessons will be practical, for which you must wear practical kit. You will undertake personal research, attend formal lectures and take part in discussion and presentations. You will also read widely about the subject and perform and watch the work of your fellow students.

How you will be assessed

Unit 1 is internally assessed coursework, Units 2 and 3 are externally assessed written examinations, while Unit 4 is an externally assessed practical examination marked by a visiting examiner.

Special entry requirements

You should have at least a grade C in English GCSE.

You need a genuine interest in performing arts subjects and in live performance.

You must be prepared to participate in performances and be involved in rehearsals outside of normal lesson time.

It is recommended that students take a First Aid Qualification alongside this course.

What the students say

I have really enjoyed the study of American Musicals, Ive always enjoyed them but now I understand them.

Christopher Nolan

The community project was great, it was fun to perform outdoors and interact with the audience.

Katie Packer

Other useful information

There will be opportunities to perform live to an audience on several occasions.

Various theatre visits (costs involved).

Exam results: 100% pass rate.