Drama
“I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.”
Oscar Wilde
Drama Vision
Welcome to the KS3 Drama curriculum.
Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of performance. This map provides an overview of what you'll explore throughout Years 7-9, though the exact order of topics may shift from term to term.
Our program focuses on developing the core skills of performance and creating original work. We believe the best way to learn is by doing, so lessons are hands-on and immersive. You'll dive into a variety of theatrical styles, building your technical skills and confidence on stage.
Throughout your KS3 journey, you'll explore a range of theatrical traditions and techniques, including Ancient Greek Theatre, Storytelling, Elizabethan Theatre, Commedia dell'arte, Slapstick Comedy, and Physical Theatre. You'll also be introduced to the influential practitioner Brecht, study the modern classic Blood Brothers, and develop your creativity and collaboration skills through Improvisation and Devising.
As you progress, you may find yourself gravitating towards a particular style or skill, which will help you prepare for our KS4 offerings. The department also runs a wide range of drama clubs and extracurricular opportunities, which are announced on a termly basis. We encourage all students to participate and further develop their passion for performance.
Revision Provisions
Understanding Drama + Devising:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zrnjwty
Blood Brothers:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/ztpdbk7/revision/1
https://studyrocket.co.uk/revision/gcse-drama-aqa
What is Drama?
Drama at our school is far more than just acting; it's a dynamic and collaborative subject that allows students to explore the human experience in a hands-on way. Through performance, improvisation, and storytelling, students learn to express themselves, build confidence, and develop empathy by stepping into the shoes of different characters. It's a creative space where imagination is celebrated, and students learn to communicate effectively, solve problems as a team, and think critically about the world around them. Drama is a subject that builds essential life skills, encouraging students to be confident, articulate, and compassionate individuals both on and off the stage.
Who might enjoy this course?
Drama at school can be enjoyed by a wide range of students, from those who are naturally outgoing to those who are more introverted. It's a subject that offers something for everyone, not just aspiring actors.
Students who may enjoy drama include:
- Creative and imaginative students: Those who enjoy storytelling, inventing characters, and exploring new worlds will thrive in a drama setting. The subject encourages out-of-the-box thinking and allows students to bring their unique ideas to life.
- Students who want to build confidence: Drama provides a safe and supportive environment for students to step outside their comfort zone. Through activities like improvisation and performance, even the shyest students can find their voice and gain the confidence to speak in front of others.
- Students who enjoy teamwork: Much of drama is a collaborative process. Students work in groups to devise performances, solve problems, and support each other, making it an ideal subject for those who enjoy working with others.
- Students who enjoy a hands-on approach to learning: Drama is an active and practical subject. It's perfect for students who prefer to learn through movement, speaking, and doing, rather than just sitting and writing.
- Students interested in the technical side of theatre: Drama isn't just about acting. Students who enjoy technology, art, or design may discover a passion for lighting, sound, costume, or set design, all of which are crucial to a successful production.
- Students who want to develop empathy: By stepping into the shoes of different characters, students learn to understand and appreciate a variety of perspectives. This builds empathy and helps them navigate complex social situations in their own lives.
Skills developed
Drama provides students with a diverse set of practical and transferable skills that benefit them both on and off the stage.
Key Skills Developed in Drama:
- Communication Skills: Drama is fundamentally about communication. Students learn to use their voice, body language, and facial expressions to convey emotions and stories effectively. This includes developing clear articulation, vocal projection, and a strong stage presence, which translates to better public speaking and interpersonal skills in real-life situations.
- Confidence and Self-Esteem: Drama creates a supportive environment where students can experiment and take risks. By performing in front of others, they overcome shyness and build self-assurance. This newfound confidence extends beyond the classroom, empowering them to participate more actively in other subjects and new challenges.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Theatre is a highly collaborative art form. Students work together in groups to devise, rehearse, and perform, which teaches them to listen actively, compromise, and respect different ideas. This fosters a sense of shared responsibility and strengthens their ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Creativity and Critical Thinking: Drama encourages students to think imaginatively and creatively. They learn to invent characters, develop original narratives, and solve practical problems on the spot. This process enhances their critical thinking skills, as they analyze texts, interpret themes, and evaluate their own work and that of their peers.
- Empathy: By stepping into the shoes of different characters and exploring various perspectives, students develop a deeper understanding of human emotions and motivations. This cultivates empathy and social awareness, helping them to navigate complex social interactions with greater compassion.
What about exams? What will I study?
AQA GCSE Drama is a dynamic and engaging course that combines practical performance with a deep understanding of theatrical theory.
It is assessed through three main components.
Component 1: Understanding Drama is a written exam where students demonstrate their knowledge of a set play and analyze a live theatre production they have seen.
Component 2: Devising Drama is a practical and written component where students create their own original piece of theatre from a given stimulus and document the process in a "Devising Log."
Component 3: Texts in Practice is a practical performance exam where students perform two extracts from a contrasting published play in front of an external examiner. Throughout the course, students can choose to be assessed as a performer or as a designer (lighting, sound, set, or costume), offering a wide range of pathways for students to showcase their skills and interests.
What could I do next with GCSE Drama?
If you've enjoyed your drama lessons, you can continue to be involved in the performing arts life of the school by participating in school shows, drama clubs, and rehearsals. You can also opt to take Drama GCSE as one of your chosen subjects if you have developed the skills necessary to perform as a solo or ensemble actor, devise your own theatre, and analyze live productions in detail.
Local colleges in South Suffolk, such as Suffolk New College, West Suffolk College (Conservatoire EAST), and One Sixth Form College, offer a clear progression route for students. They provide a range of qualifications including A-Level Drama and Theatre, as well as vocational courses like the RSL and UAL Level 3 Diplomas in Acting and Performing Arts, for which you would be very well prepared. These courses are designed for aspiring performers but are also perfect for anyone who wants a well-rounded education.
A future career can be found in a wide variety of fields, including acting, directing, stage management, teaching, marketing, law, and media production, or as a community arts worker or drama therapist. Even if you don't pursue a career in the arts, the inclusion of drama in your timetable can bring many benefits. For many students, drama is a valuable outlet for emotional expression and can help to increase confidence. It builds essential presentation and performance skills as the courses are heavily driven by showing others your work. Drama provides enrichment activities outside the classroom, such as seeing and being involved in professional theatrical performances.