AQA GCSE Drama Revision
Adaptive practice aligned to the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance specification. 8 topics, exam-style questions, and instant AI feedback.
About AQA GCSE Drama
AQA is the largest exam board in England, setting GCSE and A-Level exams taken by millions of students each year. Known for clear mark schemes and well-structured specifications across all major subjects.
GCSE Drama involves studying and performing plays, devising your own theatrical work, and analysing live theatre. You will develop skills in acting, directing, and design, and learn to evaluate performances using specialist dramatic terminology.
Topics in AQA GCSE Drama
Study Tips for AQA Drama
When studying your set text, think like a director. For each scene, consider staging, proxemics, vocal delivery, physicality, and design elements. This depth of analysis is exactly what the written exam demands.
Keep a detailed rehearsal log for your devised piece. Record your creative decisions, what techniques you experimented with, and how your piece evolved. This forms the basis of your written evaluation and is worth significant marks.
Watch as much live theatre as possible and practise writing analytical reviews. Focus on specific moments — how did the lighting change the mood, how did an actor use pause for tension — rather than general descriptions.
Learn key drama terminology: Brechtian techniques, naturalism, physical theatre, split staging, cross-cutting, hot-seating. Using the correct terms in your written work shows the examiner you understand the art form at a sophisticated level.
Exam Tips for AQA Drama
In the written exam, always justify your creative choices. Do not just say you would use a spotlight — explain that you would use a tight spotlight to isolate the character and emphasise their vulnerability to the audience.
For live theatre evaluation questions, describe specific moments rather than giving a general overview. Quote dialogue if you can remember it, and explain the effect specific choices had on you as an audience member.
Time your written exam carefully. Students often spend too long on the set text section and rush the live theatre evaluation. Plan how many minutes you will spend on each section before you start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is GCSE Drama assessed?
Typically: Devising (40% — performance plus written portfolio), Performing a scripted piece (20%), and a Written Exam (40%) covering your set text and live theatre evaluation. The exact split varies by exam board.
Do I have to act in GCSE Drama?
Acting is the most common option, but most exam boards allow you to be assessed as a designer (lighting, sound, set, costume) instead of a performer for the practical components. Check with your school.
What set texts are studied?
Common set texts include Blood Brothers, The Crucible, DNA by Dennis Kelly, and An Inspector Calls. Your school will choose which text to study based on the exam board.
Do I need to see a live theatre performance?
Yes, you must write about a live theatre performance you have seen in the written exam. Your school will usually organise at least one theatre trip, but seeing additional performances will give you more material to draw on.
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