What will you do on this course?
Theatre is a practical subject that encourages development of both theatre and life skills; the building of confidence, creativity and working collaboratively. The IB Diploma Programme theatre course is a multifaceted theatre-making course of study. It emphasises the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble.
Are there any trips or extracurricular activities linked to this course?
Yes, lots!
What benefits does this subject have for university entrance?
The ‘soft skills’, polished through the practical collaborative style of the course, is specifically enriching for those wanting to embark on courses in Law, Media, Humanities and the Arts in general.
What skills or learning approach do I need for this subject?
A commitment to deadlines and the ability to collaborate towards a shared aim. A passion for communication and theatre in all its forms. An ability to research and elicit original work derived from a known methodologies, dramaturgs and World Theatre traditions.
How does the Higher Level differ to the Standard Level?
Additionally at Higher Level Theatre students are required to practically explore one theatre theorist and engage with the process of creating a piece of theatre based on their theory.
How is it assessed?
Task 1: Solo theatre piece (HL only) Research a theatre theorist they have not previously studied, identify an aspect(s) of their theory and create and present a solo theatre piece (4–8 minutes).
Task 2: Director’s Notebook (SL and HL)
Students at SL and HL choose a published play text they have not previously studied and develop ideas regarding how it could be staged for an audience.
Task 3: Research Presentation (SL and HL) Students at SL and HL plan and deliver an individual presentation (15 minutes maximum) to their peers in which they outline and physically demonstrate their research into a convention of a theatre tradition they have not previously studied.
Task 4: Collaborative Project (SL and HL) Students at SL and HL collaboratively create and present an original piece of theatre (lasting 13–15 minutes) for and to a specified target audience, created from a starting point of their choice.
Coursework
Yes, both written and practical work to be assessed internally and externally.
Examination Method
Assessment takes places entirely through coursework which is marked separately by IB examiners externally. The devised module is the sole component marked internally and externally moderated.
What could this course lead to?
Primarily this course can lead to studying a wide spectrum of performance based disciplines. These courses would be directly industry focused for those who wish to pursue a career within Performing Arts.
GCSEs required
A solid GCSE in Drama is expected, a grade 5 or above at GCSE, or equivalent. English Language or Literature GCSE would also be desirable.