Edexcel GCSE Drama specification (1DR0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel GCSE Drama exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel GCSE Drama specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel GCSE Drama (1DR0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9–1) in Drama allows students to explore and understand drama through performance, design and critical engagement with live and scripted theatre. It encourages creativity, collaboration and reflective practice through the practical study of texts, devising original work and evaluating performances. The qualification aims to deepen understanding of cultural, social and historical contexts, build confidence in theatrical roles (e.g. performer, designer, director), and develop skills transferable to further study and employment. Students can tailor their pathway by specialising in performance, design, or a combination of both:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Component 1: Devising
- Create and develop original drama using chosen stimuli
- Perform or realise a design concept for the devised piece
- Analyse and evaluate the development and final performance in a portfolio
- Performer or designer routes available (costume, lighting, set, sound)
- Design realisations must include design documentation and a live performance element
Component 2: Performance from Text
- Perform/design two key extracts from a selected performance text
- Extracts must be significant and each at least 10 minutes in length when performed
- Choice of monologue, duologue, or group performances
- Must contrast with the text studied in Component 3 (by playwright, genre, and era)
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice
- Practical study of one complete performance text from a set list (List A: pre-1954, or List B: post-2000)
- Explore performance from the perspective of performer, director, designer
- Evaluate a live theatre performance as an informed audience member
- Use subject-specific terminology and visual examples where appropriate:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Component 1: Devising
- 60 marks
- 40% of GCSE
- Internally assessed, externally moderated
- Two parts:
- Portfolio (45 marks): written/verbal/combined evidence analysing creation and performance
- Devised performance or design realisation (15 marks)
Component 2: Performance from Text
- 48 marks
- 20% of GCSE
- Externally assessed by visiting examiner or via recording
- Perform or realise design for two key extracts from one text
- Extracts must meet timing criteria (e.g. monologue 2–3 mins, duologue 3–5 mins, group 10–15 mins)
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice
- 60 marks
- 40% of GCSE
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Section A (45 marks): practical interpretation of unseen extract from studied text
- Section B (15 marks): evaluation of live theatre performance (students may bring 500-word notes)
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Create/develop ideas – 20%
- AO2: Apply theatrical skills – 30%
- AO3: Demonstrate knowledge/understanding – 30%
- AO4: Analyse/evaluate own/others’ work – 20%:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel GCSE Drama isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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