2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Drama Paper 3 and Mark Scheme Combined (1DR0/3A: Theatre Makers in Practice)
4.2
2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Drama Paper 3 and Mark Scheme Combined (1DR0/3A: Theatre Makers in Practice)
View example
Details
Comments
Reviews

2025 Pearson Edexcel GCSE Drama Paper 3 and Mark Scheme Combined (1DR0/3A: Theatre Makers in Practice)

Paper 3 is the Theatre Makers in Practice component of the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Drama qualification (1DR0/3A). This paper assesses students’ understanding, analysis, and evaluation of theatre performance and production, focusing on applying knowledge of drama theory and practice to live or recorded performances.

Paper 3 forms 40% of the total GCSE Drama qualification and is a written examination that draws on students’ experience of performing and live theatre.


What the Paper Covers

Paper 3 emphasizes:

🎬 Analysis of Theatre

  • Understanding the work of theatre practitioners, directors, and designers

  • Analysing performance choices, characterisation, and dramatic techniques

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of staging, lighting, sound, set, costume, and props

📚 Application of Knowledge

  • Applying theatrical terminology to describe and evaluate performances

  • Comparing interpretations of texts in different productions

  • Linking theory to practice by referencing own performances or rehearsals

🎭 Critical Evaluation

  • Reflecting on the impact of performances on audiences

  • Justifying directorial and design choices

  • Demonstrating understanding of style, genre, and performance conventions


Structure of the Paper

  • Written Examination: Combination of short-answer and extended-response questions

  • Scenario/Stimulus-Based Questions: Analysing extracts from scripts, performances, or production elements

  • Assessment Focus: AO1, AO2, AO3: knowledge, application, and evaluation of theatre practice

The paper evaluates:

  • AO1 – Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre techniques

  • AO2 – Application of theatrical skills and analysis to performance contexts

  • AO3 – Evaluation and reflection on the effectiveness of performance and production


Mark Scheme (Included in the Combined Document)

The combined question paper + mark scheme includes:

  • Mark descriptors for short-answer and extended-response questions

  • Guidance on analysing performance, design, and practitioner influence

  • Exemplars of high, medium, and low-level responses

  • Allocation of marks for analysis, evaluation, and use of theatre terminology

The mark scheme emphasizes clarity, use of precise terminology, thoughtful evaluation, and evidence-based analysis.