KS4 Overview

Pupils are introduced to the GCSE course, which mainly focuses on devised work, text work and evaluation of live performances.  They will also study a set text.

Building on KS3 and preparing for KS5…

Knowledge for KS4 continues to develop collaboration skills, communication skills, teamwork, improvisation skills and scripted work.  In KS4, pupils take responsibility for the entire process of performing their chosen monologue giving them valuable insight into all aspects of staging a piece of theatre to an audience.  More public performance is encouraged.

KS4 Assessment

Verbal feedback and praise is given each lesson from the teacher and from peers. This process allows students to accept feedback as a positive aspect of their training and not a criticism.  There are also more formal assessments each term and regular written work gradings. 

KS4 Content

Y10 Content Autumn	Intro to GCSE, drama techniques and Devising
Y10 Content Spring	Set text 1 and scripted performances
Y10 Content Summer	Set text 2 and first ‘real’ coursework started
Y11 Content Autumn	Devising drama – performance, log and assessment
Y11 Content Spring	Texts in Practice and revision of set text
Y11 Content Summer	Examiner performance and written exam prep.

Exam Board and website link:

AQA GCSE Drama

AQA | GCSE | Drama | Specification at a glance

Details of external assessment:

Component 1 UNDERSTANDING DRAMA written exam 1 hour and 45 minutes.  40% of GCSE

Component 2 DEVISING DRAMA devising log and devised performance. 40% of GCSE (coursework)

Component 3 TEXTS IN PRACTICE Performance of two extracts form the same play. 20% of GCSE (visiting examiner)

 

Useful resources for KS4:

AQA GCSE drama by Annie Fox (ISBN 9781911208211)

CGP GCSE drama – the revision guide (ISBN 978 1 78294 962 6)