Quick questions on Individual Project overview: HSC Drama practical

All five Individual Project options share several features.

A 2,500 word essay on a topic in drama, theatre studies or performance criticism. The topic is negotiated with the class teacher and approved by NESA (a topic is recorded on the NESA registration system early in the year).

A six to eight minute solo piece performed live to a NESA panel. Either:

A portfolio for a hypothetical production of a chosen play. The student picks one design specialty:

An original script of 1,500 to 2,000 words for stage or radio. The script is accompanied by a rationale and dramaturgical notes.

A five to seven minute filmed piece. The student writes, directs and edits the work (acting may be by others). Submitted with a director's statement, storyboard and shot list.

The choice question is honestly the most important practical decision a Year 12 Drama student makes. Three principles.

The Individual Project is not directly examined in the written paper. Section III of the written paper sometimes uses the orientation of a critical analysis or theatre critic essay, which most resembles the Critical Analysis Individual Project, but the practical work and the exam are separately assessed components.

The Individual Project is by one student; the Group Performance is the collaborative task.

Students select their option in Term 4 of Year 11 or early Term 1 of Year 12. The choice locks in; it is difficult (and discouraged) to change after Term 1.

All options require a logbook of process documentation kept across the year. The logbook records the student's research, decisions, dead ends and revisions. It is part of the submitted material.

The completed work is submitted to NESA at the end of the year. Performance and Video Drama have specific submission processes (recording or filming the work for NESA's panel).

Unlike the Group Performance, each Individual Project receives its own individual mark.

The Individual Project counts toward the HSC mark at a weighting set by NESA. Check the current syllabus or school assessment booklet for the exact percentage.

The essay (2,500 words, footnoted and referenced) plus the supporting logbook.