Cambridge IGCSE Drama (0411)

We review all of our syllabuses regularly to make sure they continue to meet the needs of our schools and are up-to-date with current thinking. We worked with teachers and subject expert panels to update Cambridge IGCSE Drama as part of our on-going review process. Following the review, we have made some changes to the syllabus for examination in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

How has the syllabus changed?

We have:

• updated the syllabus aims to ensure a smooth progression to the new Cambridge International AS & A Level Drama (9482). The emphasis remains the same – to focus on the enjoyment of drama and the practical process of moving from script to performance
• added a statement to the list of performance skills to clarify that candidates will be assessed on their ability to sustain role(s) throughout a performance.
• revised the subject content wording and presentation
• replaced the long glossary of dramatic and theatrical terms in the appendix with a list of key terms within the subject content. All candidates must be familiar with this list (the longer glossary will be available from the SSH rather than in the syllabus itself)
• added a list of command words and their meanings, and some example instructional phrases, to help learners know what’s expected of them in the exam.

How has the assessment changed?

• Pre-release materials will only be available online. Centres have to print copies and give them to their learners for use during the course (new hard copies will be supplied by Cambridge International for the examination). Centres should note changes to dates when material will be available.
• Pre-release materials will now contain two shorter extracts rather than one longer extract, and the stimlui for the devised piece has been removed so that teachers can select their own.
• Paper 1 (written examination): We have changed the structure so Section A focusses on one extract from the pre-release, Section B on the other extract and Section C on a devised piece. The duration and total number of marks remain the same. Candidates can now answer questions in Section C on the same devised piece they have entered for Component 2. Only Section B will contain optional questions. Candidates answer all questions on the question paper. There are no changes to the types of questions or constructs being assessed.
• Component 2 (coursework): we have specified the durations for each performance to help guide the performance time, particularly for the group work. The assessment criteria have been updated to include marks for the candidate’s ability to sustain role(s) throughout a performance; no other changes to the constructs being assessed have been made. The wording of the assessmemt criteria have been revised throughout for clarity.
• AO weighting percentages have been amended slightly.
• AO weightings in Component 1 have changed.

When do these changes take place?

The updated syllabus is for examination in June 2022, 2023 and 2024. Please see the 2022-2024 syllabus above for full details.