Higher Drama

Higher Drama

Aims of Course:

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

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.

NOTE:
Pupils 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. It is advisable that students have achieved at least a grade 2 at Standard Grade English for this course due to the essay writing skills needed.

Parents should note that pupils will need to be recorded (either by Video or Photography) for practical evidence in relation to the practical element of the course. Parents should also note that some of the Scottish Contemporary texts studied include some strong language.