We recognise that there is need for a greater proportion of written work at AS/A level to support entry into higher education. However, we disagree with this change in weighting. Where previously non-examined assessment has ranged from 40-100%, we feel that the proposed reduction of non-examined assessment to a maximum of 60% will restrict the breadth of further learning and progression opportunities that can be explored through AS Level Drama and Theatre through non-exam assessment. We recommend that instead of being the maximum of non-exam assessment, 60% (or greater) is considered the minimum balance. Our research has shown that practitioners in Higher Education are confident that non-written elements of the “very exam are robust and important and make an important contribution to assessment”. However, due to the practical nature of the subject a more appropriate minimum weighting for non-examined assessment be within the realm of 70% - 80%. We note the value of maintaining some flexibility in the weightings between the examined and non-examined elements of the course, particularly for those who may wish to pursue academic study through higher education. Question 23: To what extent do you agree or disagree that the proposed assessment objectives are appropriate for A levels and AS qualifications in drama and theatre? ( ) Strongly agree ( ) Agree ( ) Neither agree nor disagree (X) Disagree ( ) Strongly disagree Please give reasons for your answer We recommend that assessment objective A04 retains an emphasis on theatre ‘live’ (as in the current assessment objectives). The proposed assessment objectives are clear and defined, however we would wish to see weightings revised to reflect the 70% minimum focus on practical non exam based assessment as stated above. Question 24: To what extent do you agree or disagree that the proposed weightings of the assessment objectives are appropriate for AS qualifications in drama and theatre? ( ) Strongly agree ( ) Agree
We recognise that there is need for a greater proportion of written work at AS/A level to support entry into higher education. However, we disagree with this change in weighting. Where previously non-examined assessment has ranged from 40-100%, we feel that the proposed reduction of non-examined assessment to a maximum of 60% will restrict the breadth of further learning and progression opportunities that can be explored through AS Level Drama and Theatre through non-exam assessment. We recommend that instead of being the maximum of non-exam assessment, 60% (or greater) is considered the minimum balance. Our research has shown that practitioners in Higher Education are “very confident that non-written elements of the exam are robust and important and make an important contribution to assessment”. However, due to the practical nature of the subject a more appropriate minimum weighting for non-examined assessment be within the realm of 70% - 80%. We note the value of maintaining some flexibility in the weightings between the examined and non-examined elements of the course, particularly for those who may wish to pursue academic study through higher education. Question 23: To what extent do you agree or disagree that the proposed assessment objectives are appropriate for A levels and AS qualifications in drama and theatre? ( ) Strongly agree ( ) Agree ( ) Neither agree nor disagree (X) Disagree ( ) Strongly disagree Please give reasons for your answer We recommend that assessment objective A04 retains an emphasis on ‘live’ theatre (as in the current assessment objectives). The proposed assessment objectives are clear and defined, however we would wish to see weightings revised to reflect the 70% minimum focus on practical non exam based assessment as stated above. Question 24: To what extent do you agree or disagree that the proposed weightings of the assessment objectives are appropriate for AS qualifications in drama and theatre? ( ) Strongly agree ( ) Agree
OFQUALArtsCouncilEnglandresponseonGSCEASandAlevelsubjectreform.docx