AQA: DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES

Introduction

This subject seeks to emphasise the unique qualities of the subject of Drama, and is not just intended for those who wish to act or read drama at university. Many of the skills that are learnt support other subjects such as English and Media Studies, as well as ensuring the student is confident and adept at problem solving and working in a team.

Highlights

The syllabus aims to encourage candidates to:

• Develop their interest and enjoyment in drama and theatre both as participants and as informed members of the audience
• Develop an understanding and appreciation of the significance of social, cultural and historical influences on the development of drama and theatre
• Experience a range of opportunities to develop a variety of practical skills
• Integrate theory and practice through their understanding of critical concepts and the use of specialist terminology

Syllabus Content

The AS level comprises 2 units:

Unit 1 - Live Theatre Production Seen and Prescribed Play

Section A - Students will see a range of live theatre and give a response to a performance seen. They will comment on how performers, designers and directors communicate meaning to an audience.

Section B - Students will work on a chosen text, interpreting it from a performance perspective. They will develop their awareness of theatre as a practical process.

This unit is examined in January and/or June. Each section is taken as a separate paper with a time allowance of 45 minutes each.

Unit 2 - Presentation of an Extract from a Play

Students are required to work in groups to present for an audience an extract from a published play of their choice. Students may nominate to be marked on Acting, Directing, Costume, Mask Design, Set Design or a Technical Element such as lighting or sound. Whatever element is chosen the group takes collective responsibility for the finished piece. This unit is performed to an audience. It is internally assessed and externally moderated by a visiting examiner.

The A2 level comprises 2 units:

Unit 3 - Further Prescribed Plays including Pre-Twentieth Century

Section A - Students will study one set play through practical exploration as an actor. They will then respond to questions focussed on their interpretation of the play from a performance perspective.

Section B - Students will develop through practical work their own directorial concept for a prescribed play. They will then have to offer suggestions for a complete stage realisation of a short extract from their selected text.

This unit is examined in January and/or June in a synoptic paper of two hours.

Unit 4 - Presentation of Devised Drama

Students are required to work in groups to present for an audience a devised drama, performed in a theatrical style of their choice. This unit is performed to an audience. It is internally assessed and externally moderated by a visiting examiner.

Looking Further Ahead

Students who are keen on acting could then either apply for an acting, directing or technical theatre course at drama school or university. Many universities offer a range of these courses and most drama schools now offer all their courses at degree level. Alternatively, Drama and Theatre Arts courses or Performing Arts Courses study the Art of Theatre or Textual analysis.

Whatever a student chooses, an employer or university will recognise the importance and use of AS or A level Drama as it gives students the confidence to speak and present in front of others and work effectively in a team expressing their own opinions and accepting those of others.

Full specification can be found at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/arts/drama_materials.php?id=06&prev