AS Level Drama and Theatre Studies

What is the subject about?
First Year (AS)
You’ll study two plays, act them out in class, discuss and analyse them, explain and write coursework about them, study the ideas of a well-known practitioners and explore them through practical work and through discussion. You will also go on theatre trips, then discuss and write an analysis of the plays you see.
Practical Work: Students will see that studying involves a good deal of practical work. Also, your major task will be to work towards end of year performances.

Second Year (A2)
You will work in a group and devise a project for performance from a given stimulus. You will also write how you achieved your play and what you have learnt, in an ongoing log book that will contribute to your supporting written evidence. One of the requirements this year is to study one set text, and see a modern performance of an historical play. The set text will be explored practically, and from the perspec- tive of the director, examining how the plays should be rehearsed and understood by an audience. Also, you will be required to analyse and evaluate how a modern production has interpreted a historic text and relate this to your understanding of its original performance conditions.

Why study Drama?

• Because you enjoy theatre, creating theatre, performing theatre, learning about theatre, discussing theatre, writing about theatre – and going to the theatre!
• Because you want to be involved in a subject that includes practical work physical, vocal, emotional & artistic in groups, leading to performances.
• Because you are also interested in studying play texts and practitioners, analysing them closely and writing essays about them.
• You are interested in the roles of the director, designer and playwright, as well as the actor

Is it exam or course work?
First Year (AS)
The plays that you study and see will be written about in coursework. You will also be given practical tasks that are assessed. 40% of the AS marks. You will be marked on the performance you give in a play, as part of a cast and also in either monologue or duologue. 60% of the AS marks

Second Year (A2)
You will be marked on the process (devising and rehearsing) and the performance of your project, together with your supporting written evidence (including your log book) 40% of A2 marks. This is a written exam and you will be required to answer questions on your studied set texts and the historical play which you have been to see during the year. 60% of A2 marks.

What are the entry requirements?
The general entry requirements for studying at Advanced Level apply, and must include a minimum of grade C in English GCSE. You will also need a readiness to involve yourself

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