Introduction
In Years 7-9 students will attend one timetabled hour of Drama each week. During this lesson they will explore a wide range of issues, whilst also developing their understanding of the art form of theatre. Students will be introduced to a range of Drama techniques such as Still Image, Spontaneous Improvisation, Mime, Sound Collage, Hot Seating, Physical Theatre, Narration and Teacher in Role.
Key Concepts
Whilst students’ Drama skills develop throughout the year, they will in turn be developing a thorough understanding of their cultural identity in the world around them. Each story or scheme explores a wide range of themes, ranging from bullying to personal safety. Students are supported to connect with these issue-based concepts on a personal level, encouraging self-reflection and empathy.
Key Processes
During Key Stage 3 students will be expected to adopt and sustain a role within a variety of situations, work effectively in groups of varying sizes and begin to evaluate their own work and that of others. Through their use of a variety of Dramatic Form, students will develop their learning skills as creative and critical thinkers, whilst becoming effective team workers and self-managers.
Setting Arrangements
Students are taught in their teaching groups throughout Key Stage 3. The subject is taught in fully equipped drama studios by trained drama specialists.
Assessment
At the end of each half term students are assessed on the 5 key aspects of role, movement and space, group work, creative thinking and reflection. Teachers will record a level of attainment related to these five assessment areas and these will be communicated to the students informally once a term. All students are given a National Curriculum level which will be recorded in their progress report each term. The students will also receive an effort grade and target for their practical drama work.
Each term students will complete a self-assessment sheet. They will give themselves two targets in negotiation with their teacher, and will track their progression throughout the year. The sheet will be kept for the students in their class drama folder.
Students will have one summative assessment. This will take the form of a two-hour practical examination in June, where students will be examined in each of the five areas of assessment.
Throughout the year, students’ progress will be rewarded with stars which they collect on star sheets. When they complete their star sheets they receive Drama Award Certificates to put in their ROPA Files. In Year 7 students will be working towards their Bronze and Silver Drama Awards.
Marking Criteria
Students will be given their level based on the following criteria:
- ROLE Adopting and sustaining a role.
- MOVEMENT & SPACE Creating a still image and showing some awareness of movement and space.
- GROUP WORK Initiating ideas within group work and responding to the ideas of others.
- ISSUES Exploring ideas and feelings, and reflecting thoughtfully on the Drama work.
- EVALUATION Evaluating their own and other students’ work, beginning to discuss the meaning of the Drama.
Homework
Homework is set as and when appropriate and may take the form of a thinking task, independent research or a written task such as ‘writing in role’.
Curriculum Opportunities
Students will also be given the opportunity to watch the examination work of Key Stage 4 and 5 students.
Extra-curricular opportunities
Throughout each year, students are invited to attend a lunchtime drama club where they can get involved in lunchtime performances for other students. The focus of the club is for students to have fun, whilst also developing their Drama skills. All students are welcome regardless of ability.
Useful Websites
Websites linked to useful London theatres and educational sites:
www.polkatheatre.comwww.Shakespeares-Globe.orgwww.stagecoach.co.ukwww.nyt.org.ukwww.rosetheatrekingston.orgwww.theambassadors.com/richmond/education