HIGHER DRAMA

Entry Level
Standard Grade Level 1 or 2 in either Drama or English. (Having a pass in another practical subject such as Music, P.E, Art may be advantageous in gaining entry.)

Course Description
This exciting course allows the student to extend the Creative Drama skills developed at Standard Grade or Intermediate 2 and to acquire new skills, knowledge and understanding involved in the exploration of how a complete dramatic text may be communicated through theatre.

Aims of Course
To investigate relationships, issues and topics;
To gain knowledge and understanding of aspects of theatre;
To develop acting and directing skills and contribute to a presentation;
To experience theatrical performance.

Course Content
The course is divided into three component units: Investigative Drama, Study of a Text in its Theatrical Context and Contemporary Scottish Theatre.

Investigative Drama involves the exploration of a chosen issue, topic or theme through drama, leading to the devising of a theatrical presentation which can be performed to an invited audience. Each student will take responsibility for devising and directing an identifiable section of the presentation.

Study of a Prescribed Text in its Theatrical Context involves the exploration of the storyline and relationships in the chosen play but also examines how the play would have been performed when it was written and how it might be performed to an audience of today. Students will also study and perform an acting role from the text.

Contemporary Scottish Theatre involves the exploration of identified trends and issues in contemporary Scottish theatre through workshops, discussion and research based on a selection of plays. Students will also study and perform one acting role from a chosen play.

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 optional but is strongly recommended.

Homework
Homework will consist of the study of both the Prescribed Text (The Crucible or Antigone) and Contemporary Scottish Texts. Essays covering both these areas will be set on a regular weekly basis. Two five-minute textual extracts will be learnt for presentation to a visiting examiner.

Students will also be expected to research, write scripts and compile material for their Investigative Drama folio outside class time. Folio commentary will be accompanied by scripts, set plans and rehearsal notes. Students are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their own learning, which is reflected by the degree of student autonomy and choice. There is a strong practical emphasis in the learning and teaching approaches for both creative drama and the exploration of text.

Scottish Qualifications Authority Assessment

Unit Internal Assessment
Investigative Drama Evaluation
(completed under exam conditions marked internally but subject to SQA verification)

Course Assessment
Acting Exam
(40% of total course award)

Written Exam on the Prescribed Text including Dramatic Commentary and one essay on Contemporary Scottish Theatre
(60% of total course award)