Page last updated on Friday 11th July 2008

Drama in S3/4

Drama is rehearsing for life; it deals with relationships between people, between people and ideas, and between people and the environment. By acting out roles and situations you can gain a greater understanding and knowledge of real life issues, events, situations and relationships. This interaction contributes to the quality of our lives and to a large extent to our knowledge of ourselves.

The subject is designed to build confidence, encourage creativity, co-operation, interaction and communication (verbal and non verbal). These skills are increasingly in demand as the importance of team building, interpersonal relationships and negotiation become more of a focus in the work place. Some careers that are linked to skills in Drama include:-
Acting Producer Lighting designer/technician Directing Stage Manager Sound designer/technician Casting Agent Theatre Critic Costume designer/maker

What do you study?
The Intermediate 1 and Intermediate 2 Drama courses are made up of three different units:

Drama Skills
For this unit you are asked to work in a group using 'creative' skills to write a play which will then be performed to an audience. During this unit you will get the opportunity to 'act', 'write' and also 'direct' others.

Production Skills
In this unit you will develop the skills necessary to produce a play. You will look at all the various roles involved in theatre production.

Production
This unit asks you to put together all the skills you have learnt in the first 2 units. You will participate in the staging of a small scale production, choosing which area you wish to concentrate on. You can choose between acting, directing, stage-management, costume design, lighting etc.

How do pupils get their marks and grades?
Pupils must pass all the unit assessments. There is also an external practical exam assessing production and a written exam.

What comes next?
S5/6 courses will be offered at Higher and Advanced Higher levels. Drama is a recognised entry qualification for university.

Drama Intermediate 1 --------------- Drama Intermediate 2
Drama Intermediate 2 ---------------Drama Higher