Drama and Theatre Studies

Download Course Online

Entry Requirements

Normal BSFC entry requirements for an AS programme of study and including at least a C in GCSE English Language . It is not necessary to have studied drama at GCSE but you must be prepared to take part in practical sessions as well as looking at the theory of drama. 

About the Subject

This course aims to broaden your knowledge and understanding of theatre and the way it operates. It has both practical and theoretical elements. You will work from text as well as improvising original work. Although you can specialise in theatrical design or technical elements in the practical exam you will still need to take an active part in acting exercises.

This course involves a lot of group work therefore excellent attendance is essential to success.

AS Year

Assessment
Unit		 Name Type of
Assessment		 Date of
Exam		 Weighting
in AS		 Weighting
in A2
DA1 Performance
Workshop.		 Practical Exam Jan 40% 20%
DA2 Text in Performance Written Paper 120
minutes		 May 60% 30%

A2 Year

Assessment
Unit		 Name Type of
Assessment		 Date of
Exam		 Weighting
in A2
DA3 Practical Performance 
plus written evaluation		 Practical Exam and
externally
assessed
evaluation		 March 30%
DA4 Text in Contex Written Paper
150 minutes		 June 20%

General Information

Practical Exam:

At both AS and A2 students take a practical exam. For this exam you can choose to act, design or offer a technical skill.

The AS and A2 exam requires you to work in a group in order to interpret an existing text as well as devising an original piece.

At A2 you also have to produce a written evaluation of your performances.

AS Written Papers:

DA2 examines your knowledge of two set texts; you will will be asked to analyse a scene from each text with regard to character motivation and action, atmosphere and staging potential. You will also have to write an account of a piece of live theatre that you have seen.

A2 Written Paper:

DA4 examines your knowledge of two set texts in terms of structure, themes, historical context, dramatic theory and performance potential.

The second part of the paper requires you to analyse an unseen extract from a play.; you will be asked to comment on design, stage movement, sound and the actor’s vocal interpretation of a role. 

What Next?

This course is not only for those who want to pursue a career in the theatre; you will develop personal skills such as self-confidence and the ability to work with others.

There are several combined degree courses which place Drama and Theatre Studies alongside subjects such as English or Media Studies as well as specialised degrees in Drama, Theatre Studies and Acting for those who wish to pursue study further.