Members of the Department
Mrs J. McAleenan (HOD)
Miss E Gray
Miss C Murtagh

Aims

OLS Department Drama aims to encourage students to:

• develop a passion for drama and be motivated and inspired by studying a broad, coherent and rewarding course of study
• work imaginatively and creatively in collaborative contexts, generating, developing and communicating ideas effectively with others
• reflect on and evaluate their own work and the work of others
• develop and demonstrate competence in a range of practical, creative, analytical and performance skills

Key Stage 3

All pupils in KS3 study Drama. During this time pupils are provided with a basic foundation in drama, learning to interpret script, devise, develop, and communicate practical outcomes.

By understanding the basic process involved in drama they develop their imagination and ability to create drama. Pupils will also learn how to develop the skill of working with others and develop critical skills, through evaluation, analysis and reflection.

Key Stage 4 (GCSE)

Examinations board: CCEA The course is divided into 3 components, two of which are practical performances (Coursework). And one is a written paper.

Assessment

Component One: Devising Theatre. Total: 25% of qualification

This is internally assessed and externally moderated by CCEA

Component Two: Scripted performance. Total 35% of qualification.

This is assessed by an external moderated by CCEA.

Component Three: Interpreting Theatre. Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes (Total % examination)

Key Stage 5 (GCE)
Examinations board: WJEC

Assessment

Year 13
Unit 1- Theatre workshop 90 marks (24% of qualification)

Practical Exam - one performance.

Unit 2 - Text in Theatre 60 marks (16% of qualification)

Written Exam: 1hour 30 minutes

Year 14

Unit 3 - Text in Action 120 marks (36% of qualification)
Practical Exam - two performances.

Unit 4 - Text in performance 95 marks (24% of qualification
Written Exam: 2 hours 30 minutes

Extra-curricular

OLS Drama department offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities:

KS3 Drama club - Is offered once a week, where pupils have the opportunity to be creative, social and become more confident individual s. They also dedicate time and rehearsals to prepare for the annual Christmas Pantomime and nativity play.

Workshops - The Drama department has garnered a good relationship with theatres around the country, and have organised a number of directors and lead actors to visit OLS and deliver speeches, workshops and presentations to KS4 and KS5 pupils. These workshops are tailored to meet the needs of different curricular areas at all levels

Theatre trips -KS4 and KS5 pupils are given the opportunity to attend professional drama performances throughout Ireland.

Career Opportunities

Achieving a GCSE or GCE in this subject can lead to a further study in Drama, Theatre Studies and Performing Arts. It can be used as part of your course to broaden your studies and may lead on to a career in the Performing Arts industries, including acting, writing or on the visual and technical side of theatre.

Drama complements a range of subjects and is useful in building confidence and improving presentation skills in a range of careers.