Drama

Drama and music are viewed both as learning processes and as art forms through which students can make sense of, express and communicate their ideas and opinions in a practical, challenging way.

Students are introduced to drama and music as art forms with a rich history of performance, in the theatre, in ceremony, in concert, in ritual and beyond. Both subjects provide a medium for the communication of young people learning. Students learn skills and understand the appropriateness of their use in order for them to create meaningful symbols.

Years 7, 8 and 9

Drama is taught at key stage 3 in years 7, 8 and 9. During this time you will explore how to perform a character, drama conventions, subject specific terminology and different themes and styles that will prepare you for GCSE drama and beyond. During your lessons you will create a different performance each week and this will be shown to the rest of the group in order to build on your confidence and performing skills throughout your duration at ELA. Students follow a curriculum which through the study of a variety of topics allows them to make, perform and evaluate drama. They will use individual and group skills to negotiate their way through various issues exploring and developing stimulus material by employing drama strategies and styles to encourage empathy, imagination and belief and in turn be taught transferable skills which will create a well-rounded individual with cross curricular links.

Progression map

Please click below to view our progression map and long term plan.

Progression map

GCSE

At GCSE students can opt to take the OCR drama syllabus which is assessed by a mixture of assessed practical and written portfolio.

Students explore issues through the medium of drama and use specified drama strategies and conventions in a series of drama workshops. Assessment is designed to allow the students to respond to ideas and issues in different contexts, demonstrating appropriate use of drama to communicate meaning to others.

Method of assessment

Unit 1 and 2 – Devising (Internally assessed – 30% of final grade)

Unit 3 – Presenting and performing texts (External examiner – 30% of final grade)

Unit 4 – Performance and response ( External written exam – 40% of final grade)