Quick questions on The language of the review explained: O-Level Drama response

A strong response uses accurate drama vocabulary to name choices exactly. Terms such as proxemics (distance between performers), focus, tension, status, intensity (brightness of light), direction, diegetic and non-diegetic sound, and configuration let you identify and analyse a choice precisely and concisely, where vague words cannot. Precise vocabulary sharpens analysis, shows knowledge, and avoids loose description. The terms should be used accurately to analyse, not as jargon for its own sake: the point is precision, so that you can say exactly what was done and discuss its effect.

A strong response is structured clearly rather than rambling. A workable structure opens with a brief orientation to the performance, then works through the key elements - acting, design, staging - or the key moments, making evidenced, analytical points about each, and closes with a fair overall judgement. Covering acting, design and staging, rather than only the story or one actor, gives a full response. Clear structure helps the reader follow the analysis and ensures the response addresses the elements the task asks about, so planning the shape before writing is worthwhile.

Two weaknesses sink most weak responses. The first is retelling the plot: spending the response summarising what happened in the story instead of analysing the performance. The plot is the playwright's; the performance is what is being assessed, so narrate only the minimum needed to set up a point. The second is vague, unsupported praise or criticism - "it was amazing", "the acting was brilliant" - with no evidence or reasoning.

"It was amazing" proves nothing; ground every judgement in a specific moment and its effect.

Vague words blur analysis; use precise drama vocabulary to name choices exactly.

A rambling response is hard to follow; plan a clear shape across acting, design and staging.

Name three features of a strong written response to a performance. [3 marks]

Name two common weaknesses students should avoid when writing about a performance. [3 marks]

Explain why precise drama vocabulary improves a written response. [4 marks]