Scholarship Drama
SSDRAM Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Ms B. Cannan.
The Drama Scholarship Examination is a practical one. Students must perform a scripted piece, a devised piece and an improvised task that is given on the day. The first two pieces can come from the students' work in class or other pieces they develop in the Scholarship session throughout the year.
Each week we work on the different components of the examination while studying different Drama theories and approaches. The aim is to extend their skills through reflection, peer feedback, application of theory and self-reflection. We also aim to make more meaningful connections to the characters as these are all solo performances rather than group work, so more time can be given to analysing intentions and background influences.
There is a practice examination available as the format of Drama Scholarship is unique. While their class study is performed to live audiences, this examination is filmed with no audience and in a much smaller physical space. We then encourage reflection and feedback to develop the performances further.
This is an interesting and challenging course with a lot of benefits. The thinking done to prepare can help with other areas of study such as English. The confidence gained is evident as the completion of the study and examination is a rewarding experience.
Course Overview
Term 1
We focus on the selection of a scripted piece while developing an understanding of character and intention. We begin our theory study and how it relates to this scripted choice.
Term 2
We focus on the devised piece, adapting it to the time and space limits and the confinements of the examination format. We also discuss how the theory applies to their original performance.
Term 3
We focus on improvisation skills, creation of character and communicating situation. Theory also needs to be incorporated. The practice examination is offered.
Term 4
The focus is on doing full practices to feel fully prepared.
Language Acquisition and Literature (English), Performing Arts, Scholarship
Assessment Information
Format of the assessment
The candidate will present three solo drama performances, with supporting commentary.
Part One: Text-based performance The candidate will perform an extract or speech by an established playwright that they have selected and prepared before the examination. (An ‘established’ playwright is one who is widely published or critically acclaimed – see for example, the list of playwrights prescribed for AS91514.) The candidate will preface the performance with an introductory analysis presented to camera, in which they should:
• include reference to the genre and significance of the chosen extract
• comment on interpretive choices and performative intentions, supported by relevant drama theory.
No written prompt may be used for the introductory analysis. The time allowed for Part One is 5 minutes. The candidate is recommended to spend no more than 90 seconds presenting the introductory analysis. The candidate must also submit an annotated script of the extract.
Part Two: Self-devised performance
The candidate will perform a self-devised piece that they have prepared before the examination, based on their individual exploration of something of relevance to them. The devising process should be supported by research into the work of at least one established drama theorist, practitioner, or company. The self-devised piece must be significantly different to the selection made in Part 1. The candidate will preface the performance with an introductory analysis presented to camera, in which they should:
• describe the purpose of the performance, what has been explored, and connections to the candidate and the wider world
• explain how research into the methods of their chosen theorist, practitioner, or theatre company has influenced or informed the development of the performance
• detail key moments in the devising process where dramatic material was selected or rejected to refine the performance.
No written prompt may be used for the introductory analysis. The time allowed for Part Two is 6 minutes. The candidate is recommended to spend no more than 2 minutes presenting the introductory analysis. The candidate must also submit an annotated script of the extract.
Part Three: Impromptu performance
The candidate will use elements of drama to create and perform a short sequence, within a restricted time, in response to a dramatic prompt. The prompt will be handed to the candidate and retained by them until the conclusion of Part Three. After the impromptu performance, the candidate will present a concluding reflection to camera, in which they should:
• describe their intentions, and reflect on how these were realised in the performance
• comment on how drama elements were integrated into the performance to create dramatic interest.
They may also reflect on:
• challenges they identified and solutions they found
• the overall structure of their performance, and specific techniques they used to create and shift between characters or to establish place and action effectively.
The time allowed for Part Three is 6 minutes. The candidate will be given 2 minutes to prepare, 2 minutes to perform, and 2 minutes to reflect on the performance.
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