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Studying a set play (Component 1, Section B)

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do we analyse a set play as a piece of theatre, not just a story?

Analysing the set play: plot, structure, characters, themes, language and stage directions, and how the playwright shapes meaning for performance.
Analysing the set play for AQA GCSE Drama Component 1 Section B, covering plot, structure, characters, themes, language and stage directions, and how to read the text as a piece of theatre rather than only as a story.
9 min answer →

How would I design or direct a moment from the set play, and how do I justify it?

Making and justifying design and directorial choices for the set play, including set, costume, lighting, sound, staging and the overall interpretation of a scene.
Making and justifying design and directorial choices for the set play in AQA GCSE Drama Component 1 Section B, covering set, costume, lighting, sound, staging and the overall interpretation of a chosen moment.
9 min answer →

How would I perform a moment from the set play, and how do I justify my choices?

Interpreting the set play for performance: making and justifying choices about vocal and physical skills, characterisation and the use of the performance space.
Interpreting the set play for performance in AQA GCSE Drama Component 1 Section B, covering vocal and physical skills, characterisation and use of space, and how to justify performance choices for a specific moment.
9 min answer →

How do the time and place a play was written and set affect its meaning?

The social, cultural and historical context of the set play, and how the period of writing and setting shapes its themes, characters and the choices a company might make.
The social, cultural and historical context of the set play for AQA GCSE Drama Component 1 Section B, covering how the period of writing and setting shapes themes, characters, audience response and the choices a company makes.
9 min answer →