Question 1

What is the difference between Component 1 and Component 2 in WJEC GCSE Drama?

Accepted Answer

Component 1 (Devising Theatre) is coursework where you create an original performance in a group, based on a stimulus, and document the process in a portfolio. It is marked by your teacher and moderated by WJEC. Component 2 (Performing from a Text) is a practical exam where you perform two extracts from a published play in front of an external examiner. Component 1 focuses on your creative process and devising skills, while Component 2 tests your ability to interpret and present existing material to an audience.

Question 2

Can I choose my own set text for the written exam?

Accepted Answer

No, the set text for Component 3 is chosen by your teacher from a list provided by WJEC. The list includes plays like 'The 39 Steps', 'The Crucible', 'DNA', and others. Your school will select one text that you will study in depth, exploring it from the viewpoints of performer, director, and designer. You will need to be able to answer questions on how you would stage and interpret that play.

Question 3

How many live theatre performances do I need to see for the WJEC GCSE Drama exam?

Accepted Answer

You must see at least one live theatre production during your course to answer the live theatre evaluation question in Component 3. The production must be a professional performance (not amateur or school productions). You will be asked to analyse and evaluate it from a specific perspective, such as performance or design, so it is important to take notes and reflect on what you saw. Some schools may take students to see more than one production to give a wider range of examples.

Question 4

Is the written exam for WJEC GCSE Drama harder than other boards?

Accepted Answer

The written exam is designed to be fair and manageable. It lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and has two sections: one on the set text and one on live theatre evaluation. The questions are straightforward and often broken down into parts to guide your response. WJEC provides mock papers and model answers on their website, and many students find the exam accessible if they have revised key terminology and theatre roles. The focus is on applying knowledge rather than lengthy essays, so it is about quality not quantity.

Question 5

Do I have to perform in a group or can I do a solo performance for the practical exam?

Accepted Answer

For Component 1 (Devising Theatre), you will work in a group to create your performance. For Component 2 (Performing from a Text), you have some flexibility: you can perform two extracts from a play as a monologue (solo), duologue, or in a group. However, both extracts must be from the same play and you must interact with others if you choose a duologue or group piece. Solo performances are allowed if the extracts are monologues, but you must still demonstrate your acting skills and understanding of the character and text.

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Key Features

About WJEC GCSE Drama

Assessment Structure

Why Choose WJEC?

Frequently Asked Questions

Assessment Objectives

What Gets Top Grades

Knowledge & Understanding

Application

Analysis & Evaluation

Key Command Words

Common Exam Mistakes

Top Examiner Tips

Specification Topics

Unit 1: Devised Theatre

Unit 2: Performing Theatre

Unit 3: Interpreting Theatre

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