Drama

Drama is a thriving subject in Cromwell Community College with pupils in Key Stage 3 receiving one hour of teaching each week. It is also a popular option at GCSE level in Key Stage 4.

Key Stage 3

During Key Stage 3 pupils study a different topic each term. The subjects covered vary greatly in order to give all pupils a wide experience of this subject. We explore theme based topics, for example bullying. We learn about the history of theatre and different performance genres and script based work is also used.

At then end of each topic the pupils are formally assessed on what they have learnt that term. The assessment takes is based on 'Creating', 'Performing' and 'Responding'. Each pupil is assessed as an individual on each of these components. Levels are used as a means of marking with the assessment criteria being clearly explained to the pupils. This then allows the Drama teachers and pupils to monitor their achievement and progress within this subject.

Key Stage 4

Students who opt for this subject at GCSE level are taught the Edexcell syllabus. This two year course comprises of both practical and written work. 60% of the work is ongoing assessment in the form of practical workshops and written portfolios. The remaining 40% is a final performance given by the candidates at the end of the course in front of an external examiner from the exam board.

During this course the students study thematic/devised theatre looking at 'Teenage Pregnancy' and 'Race, Culture and Identity'. They also learn about scripted theatre studying the plays 'Blood Brothers' by Willy Russell and 'Billy Liar' by Waterhouse and Hall. An integral part of the course are theatre visits and we aim to go to the theatre at least once every half term