Download S5 and S6 Higher Drama Course

HIGHER DRAMA
“As an actor you become that lightning rod between the person
who made the play and the audience.” Christopher Walken (actor)
Course Description
This exciting course allows you to acquire new skills in drama along with the
knowledge and understanding needed in the exploration of how a complete dramatic
text may be communicated through the central focus of theatre.
Course Content
The course is divided into two component units: Drama Skills and
Drama: Production Skills.
Drama Skills involves you exploring a variety of textual stimuli in order to identify
themes and issues which enables you to devise, collaboratively with your peers, a
theatrical performance which can be performed to an invited audience. You will take
responsibility for devising and directing an identifiable section of the performance.
Drama: Productions Skills will allow you to research one dramatic text in its
theatrical and historical context by exploring the style, structure, genre and staging of
the text. The emphasis of the exploration is from the perspective of a chosen
production area as either:
an actor (acting)
or:
a director (directing)
or:
a designer (designing lighting/sound/set/costume/makeup/props)
You will then, within your chosen production area, create and develop a performance
concept in preparation for performance. You will apply your knowledge of your
production skill as you explore, design and create and present your production
concept.
All elements of the Higher course will be supported by relevant theatre visits, some
of which may be in the evening. This part of the course is compulsory as it forms part
of the written exam.
Homework will consist of the study of both the set play as well as analysis’ of
professional productions at the theatre. Essays covering both these areas will be set
on a regular weekly basis.
Two contrasting performance pieces, which make up the Performance Exam, will be
performed to a SQA Visiting Assessor.
You will also be expected to research, write scripts and compile material for your
Drama Skills and Production Skills work/performances outside class time. This will
also consist of additional scripts, set plans and rehearsal notes. You are encouraged
to take increasing responsibility for your own learning, which is reflected in the
degree of autonomy and choice offered to you. There is a strong practical emphasis
in the learning and teaching approaches for both creative drama and the exploration
of text.
Assessment
Both component units for the Higher must be achieved: these are marked
internally, but subject to SQA verification.
Course Assessment
Performance exam is worth 60% of total course award.
Written exam on the set play and one essay on Performance Analysis is worth 40%
of total course award.