The aims of the subject
Drama is an art form, a practical activity and an intellectual
discipline which is also part of the National Curriculum programme
of study for English at all key stages. Objectives for drama are
found in the National Primary Strategy, - Framework for teaching
R-Yr 6 and in the National Key Stage 3 Strategy - Framework for
teaching English in years 7, 8 and 9. Additional case study
material can be found in the KS3 Drama Objectives Bank.
Like all the arts, drama helps both participant and audience
make sense of the world. This takes place through the creation and
exploration of imagined worlds containing characters and
relationships, situations and the events that they encounter (the
'content' of the drama). Though imaginary, the experience may
appear to be real to both actor and audience, as if it were
happening in the present. It is this that makes it a unique art
form.
Education in drama, which begins naturally with learning through
dramatic play, will eventually include many elements of theatre.
Through engagement in drama activities, pupils apply their
imaginations and draw upon their emotional memories. Their
increasing knowledge and understanding of how the elements of
theatre work enables them effectively to shape, express and share
their ideas, feelings and responses through the 'form' of the
drama.
As well as understanding the language of theatre as part of
culture, the process of learning in drama thus provides
opportunities for the development of language in all its forms and
for understanding aspects of human concerns and relationships.
Pupils learn:
- To work creatively together, experimenting with ideas and
solving problems
- Apply thinking skills within very practical contexts
- Flexibility, empathy and risk-taking
These are intrinsic to drama practice and are recognised as
vitally important in the work place and throughout adult life.