Subject:   Drama

 Number of Lessons: 2 per Fortnight  

 During key stage 3, students become more experienced in their skills and techniques, and learn how to apply them in different activities. 

Students follow a highly practical course which investigates a range of social themes and issues such as bullying and conflict in year 7, homelessness and citizenship in year 8, and crime and punishment in year 9. As they progress through key stage 3 the depth at which they explore these themes is developed.  They are introduced to basic performance skills which are developed through the exploration of these themes. 

 Activities:

 Year 7

 They are introduced to basic performance skills which are developed through the exploration of these themes.  Students are also introduced to different drama genre and styles throughout Year 7.

 Students have the opportunity to engage with the writing of others during their year 7 Drama course.  They study different selections from Shakespeare plays as well as work from more contemporary playwrights.

 Some of the year 7 work is also linked to the T-Model Humanities curriculum.  Students have the opportunity to use drama to develop their learning in history through practical exploration of topics and themes.

 All students in year 7 will the given the opportunity to see at least one piece of live theatre as part of their course. 

 Assessment:

 In year 7 assessment is both formative and summative including peer and self assessment, as well as graded assessment tasks.  Students are expected to know their current level and to know the steps necessary to progress.  Prior to each assessment task, students are actively engaged in working out the success criteria for the task.

 Students are assessed using the Drama levels adapted from those complied by the Arts Council of England.  A copy of these levels is available from the school.

 Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills

The personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS) provide a framework for describing the qualities and skills needed for success in learning and life. 

The framework comprises six groups of skills:

• independent enquirers
• creative thinkers
• reflective learners
• team workers
• self-managers
• effective participants.

For each group of skills, a focus statement sums up the range of skills and qualities involved. This is accompanied by a set of outcome statements that describe the relevant skills, behaviours and personal qualities.

Through their drama curriculum, students are encouraged to develop these skills.  They are taught to recognise the behaviour and thinking related to each skill and to recognise how this thinking can be applied to other areas of their learning.

For more information on PLTS please see: http://curriculum.qca.org.uk/key-stages-3-and-4/skills/plts/index.aspx

Extra Curricular Drama

 Throughout the year, numerous opportunities exist for students to extend their drama education through extra-curricular opportunities.  These involve participating in school shows, attending one of the many drama and performing arts clubs and working with professional artists.

 Contact:   Mr Pinch