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Careers / HE Information
The skills and knowledge accrued by A-level Drama and Theatre Studies students,
particularly those that relate to collaborative working and creative thinking, prepare
them for a wide variety of degree and career opportunities. In a wider sense, the
course helps to develop students into more confident, sociable, and rounded
individuals as well as offering unique performance opportunities. Jobs in the
creative sector are expected to increase by a third by 2020 and currently account
for one out of every 12 jobs.
Other Relevant Information
Unlike many subjects, the exam structure for A-level Drama and Theatre Studies
will remain modular. The specification provides plenty of opportunities for active
learning.
AS and A Level
Drama and Theatre Studies
General Information
How Is It Taught?
Drama and Theatre Studies is an exciting, practical and thought provoking course.
The specification provides opportunities for students to analyse live performances,
deconstruct dramatic texts and create professional and original theatre. The
course requires students to think creatively and analytically while working both
independently and in collaboration with others. While only a handful of A-level
Drama students become actors, all benefit from the opportunity to develop key
skills in areas that are valued by both universities and employers such as creative
thinking and collaborative working.
A dedicated subject specialist teaches the entire A-level course. Learning takes
place through practical workshops, rehearsals, class discussion and in-depth
research into theatrical practitioners and the historical context of set texts.
Students are expected to take a lead role in the extra-curricular events organised
by the department.
Examination Details
Drama and Theatre Studies A-level has a modular format:
Course Content
At AS level, students will develop analytical skills through the practical and active
study of two contrasting play texts. Performance skills will be developed through
students’ involvement in a professional production and the performance of a
monologue or duologue. Students will also be given the opportunity to experience
a number of memorable live theatre performances and must submit a review of
one of these.
The A2 course builds upon the skills and knowledge developed during the AS
year. Students collaborate to create a unique and original piece of theatre and are
assessed on the process of creation as well as the finished product which will be
performed to an invited audience. At the end of the year, students undertake a
written exam where they are asked to write from the point of view of a director.
AS (1st year of study)
Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre (internally assessed, 20%)
Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance (externally assessed, 30%)
A2 (2nd year of study)
Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance (internally assessed, 20%)
Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context (written exam, 30%)
Entry Requirements
A grade C or above in GCSE Drama will be required to take the course. Please
refer to Polam Hall’s general Sixth Form Entry Requirements.