Understanding Drama (1hr 45mins | 80 Marks)
AQA allows you to take a clean copy of your set play into the exam. Do not fall into the trap of re-reading the play during the exam or copying out massive chunks of dialogue! The book is only there to help you find a specific quote to back up your performance or design ideas.
Four multiple-choice questions testing your basic knowledge of the theatre industry.
What it asks: Identifying stage positions (e.g., Upstage Right), types of staging (e.g., Thrust, In-the-round), or professional roles (e.g., What is the responsibility of the Stage Manager?).
You will answer four questions based on a printed extract from your chosen set text. Notice how the questions "zoom out" from a single design element, to a single line, to the shaded box, and finally to the whole play.
What it asks: How would you design a specific element (set, costume, lighting, or sound) to reflect the context or mood of the extract?
What it asks: This is a hyper-focused question. The exam paper will highlight a single line (or a very short moment) and ask how you would use your vocal and physical skills to perform it.
What it asks: How would you use your acting skills to demonstrate the character's changing emotions or interactions strictly within the shaded box of the printed extract?
What it asks: You must explain how you would interpret the character in the printed extract, AND link it to your interpretation of the character across the play as a whole.
You will answer one essay question evaluating a piece of live theatre you have seen.
What it asks: Evaluate how successfully the actors or designers created an impact on the audience during the performance.
Take a picture of your handwritten exam answer. Our AI Director will read your handwriting, identify your marking band, and tell you exactly how to level up your AQA answer.
Launch Scanner 🚀Disclaimer: AI models can make mistakes. Always cross-reference your feedback with official AQA mark schemes and consult your teacher.