Year 10
Foundation Skills and Text Analysis
Year 10 establishes the essential foundations of drama study through comprehensive exploration of theatrical techniques and text analysis. The autumn term focuses on Set Text Study using “Blood Brothers” as the core text for Component 1. Students develop their analytical skills by examining character development, themes, and dramatic techniques within this contemporary musical drama. They explore the social and historical context of the play whilst building their understanding of how playwrights construct meaning through dramatic devices and staging choices.
The spring term expands into Practitioners and Theatre Genres alongside continued live theatre analysis. Students investigate influential theatre practitioners and their distinctive methodologies, learning how different approaches to performance and direction have shaped contemporary theatre. Live theatre analysis becomes a crucial skill as students learn to evaluate professional productions, examining performance techniques, design elements, and directorial choices. This analytical work develops their ability to articulate informed responses to theatrical work whilst understanding the collaborative nature of theatre production.
The summer term centres on the Devised Piece component, where students apply their growing theatrical knowledge in practical creative work. Working collaboratively, they develop original performance material from initial stimulus through to polished presentation. This process encompasses all aspects of theatre-making, including scriptwriting, character development, staging, and design considerations. Students maintain detailed logs documenting their creative journey, demonstrating their understanding of the devising process whilst reflecting on artistic choices and collaborative working methods.
Throughout Year 10, students develop performance skills through practical workshops, script work, and improvisation exercises. They learn to apply theatrical techniques effectively whilst building confidence in both individual and ensemble performance situations. Regular assessment through practical work and written analysis ensures students are well-prepared for the demands of Year 11.
Year 11
Advanced Performance and Critical Evaluation
Year 11 builds upon the foundational skills developed in Year 10, focusing on advanced performance work and sophisticated critical analysis. The autumn term continues with Live Theatre Analysis as part of Component 1, where students deepen their evaluative skills through exposure to a broader range of professional theatre productions. They develop the ability to assess and compare different theatrical styles, performance approaches, and production values whilst articulating their responses using appropriate theatrical terminology.
The spring term centres on Extract Performance work for Component 3, where students prepare and perform two contrasting extracts from published plays. This component demonstrates their ability to interpret scripts, develop characters, and work effectively within different dramatic styles and periods. Students explore the practical challenges of bringing written text to life, considering staging, characterisation, and ensemble work. They learn to make informed artistic choices whilst demonstrating technical competence in performance skills.
Preparation for Component 3 involves detailed script analysis, character development workshops, and extensive rehearsal work. Students explore different approaches to the same material, understanding how directorial and performance choices affect audience reception. They develop skills in blocking, voice projection, physical characterisation, and stage presence whilst learning to adapt their performance style to suit different dramatic genres and historical periods.
The summer term focuses on Revision and Final Performances, consolidating all learning from the two-year programme. Students complete their practical assessments whilst engaging in comprehensive revision of theoretical components. This period involves intensive preparation for written examinations, practical performance assessments, and portfolio completion, where applicable.
Throughout both years, students engage with the four key assessment objectives: creating and developing ideas to communicate meaning for theatrical performance, applying theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live performance, demonstrating knowledge and understanding of how drama and theatre are developed and performed, and analysing and evaluating their own work and the work of others.
Our GCSE Drama programme provides excellent preparation for A-Level Theatre Studies, performing arts courses, or careers in the creative industries. Students develop not only theatrical skills but also confidence, creativity, and analytical abilities that serve them well across numerous fields. The combination of practical and theoretical work ensures graduates are well-rounded individuals with strong communication skills and cultural awareness.
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000