The examination consists of one paper and a coursework portfolio.

Take	And
Paper 1:Written Exam Eligible for Grades A*–G. 40% of total marks.	Paper 2: Coursework Eligible for Grades A*–G. 60% of total marks.

Weighting of assessment objectives

Components	Understanding	Devising	Performing Skills
Written Examination	20%	20%	-
Coursework	15%	15%	30%
Total	35%	35%	30%

Paper 1: Written Exam

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Candidates answer questions based on the pre-release material which is issued to Centres in the December preceding the examination. The pre-release material consists of:

• three stimuli which are either short titles, phrases, scenarios or quotations. Candidates must create drama based on all three stimuli. In the examination they will be required to reflect on, and evaluate, the practical work.

Note: the stimuli may not be used as a basis for the devised piece(s) on Paper 2 (Coursework).

• an extended extract from a play. This will be taken from repertoire from a variety of cultures and times. Candidates should study the extract with a view to understanding both the text and the practical aspects of production. It is recommended that they perform it, at least informally.

Candidates are advised to split their time equally between the three sections. A new copy of the pre-release material will be provided in the examination. In all three sections of the exam paper, the questions assume that candidates have performed the extract from the play, and devised and performed pieces based on each of the stimuli. Candidates’ answers should show practical and theoretical understanding of the drama performed.

Questions on the exam paper will cover a variety of aspects of drama, e.g. characterisation, role, pacing/contrast/dynamics, spatial awareness, physicality, tension. This list is not exhaustive. Candidates should also be familiar with other dramatic features as appropriate.

Candidates are also expected to understand the role of set, lighting, sound, costume and make-up, and to appreciate the issues facing directors and stage managers.

Candidates should consider the following points in relation to the extract and the three stimuli:

• the use of suitable approaches to interpret the extract/stimuli,
• the reasons behind the choices they have made,
• appropriate use of resources to facilitate effective performance,
• how meaning(s)/atmosphere(s) could be presented to an audience.

Section A

8 to 10 short-answer questions on all of the prerelease material. Candidates must answer all questions. Section A is worth 30 marks.

Section B

Answer one from three longer-answer questions on the pre-release extract. Section B is worth 25 marks.

Section C

Answer one from three longer-answer questions on the three stimuli. Section C is worth 25 marks.

Paper 2: Coursework

Each candidate submits a total of three pieces of practical work: one individual piece and two group pieces. Candidates must have the opportunity to produce more than three pieces of practical work during the course, so that there is a choice of pieces to submit and their best work may be selected.

Candidates take part in the planning, rehearsal, performance and evaluation of Drama and are assessed on their individual practical contributions. Candidates are assessed on their skills in working towards performance, their ability to devise performance material and their practical ability in performing to an audience.

One individual piece (max 5 mins):

• Either original devised work
• Or a performance of an extract from a piece of repertoire.
• One original devised piece
• And one performance of an extract from a piece of repertoire. Each group piece must last no longer than 15 minutes and must allow each candidate broadly equal exposure. The prescribed group size is between two and six candidates.

Two group pieces (max 15 minutes each):

Guidance on pieces for Original Devised Pieces

The devised pieces must be the original work of the candidates. They are responsible for deciding on the subject matter, style, characterisation, structure and intention of the pieces. Candidates are not expected to work in isolation, and teachers may support, challenge, critique or direct as necessary during the process. CIE does not expect candidates to undertake coursework without guidance and ongoing supervision from teachers. The amount of teacher guidance will vary depending on the kinds of work. Work will be recorded on to DVD throughout the course so that candidates’ best pieces may be chosen for the coursework submission.

Original devised pieces must be based on any one of the following options. A different genre should be used for each piece. The list includes dramatic styles and techniques, issues and other options. All are viewed equally and different options may be offered from year to year. The options for 2011 are:

Options for Original Piece for 2011
Dramatic styles and techniques	Issues	Other options
forum theatre a piece of satire documentary theatre Commedia dell’ Arte character study	an issue of conscience a personal issue a domestic issue	a picture a landscape a sculpture an event in the history of your country

Guidance on Repertoire Pieces

Repertoire, that is existing and already published plays, not TV drama, films, novels or unpublished works, will be chosen by the Centre and should be selected in line with candidates’ abilities, interests and available resources.