BBC Bitesize is a massive resource covering all subjects, but drama is a new addition, and only offers content for KS4. This is progress, and not to be knocked, but I hope that in time there may be resources added for younger years which take into account the value of drama in cross-curricular settings.
Beginning my exploration of the site in the Primary section, I was tempted to take up KS1 Mandarin because, well, I've got time at the moment… and it struck me that there would be plenty of opportunities for drama techniques to be used in the languages and PSHE section here, as well as across KS3 – but sadly these opportunities are missed.
However, at GCSE, there are syllabus-linked resources for each of the exam boards. Here the name ‘bitesize’ comes into its own. I looked at GCSE > Drama > Edexcel > Understanding drama and theatre > Characteristics of a dramatic work, and revised key terms before watching a very short video of a director using those key terms while talking about a specific play, and then I did a 10-question multiple choice test. The whole process I went through shouldn't take the average GCSE student more than 20 minutes if they're concentrating, and would be an easy and engaging way for them to do self-directed revision while working remotely.
If you choose ‘Other’, rather than a specific exam board, a number of more general resources are available. I looked at the section on Theatre design, which is a very clear 7-page walk through of the basic aspects of set, lighting, music and sound, costume and using digital technology, followed as is everything by a brief multiple-choice test.
Arguably the most useful part of the site for drama is the section on ‘Writing about drama and theatre’. This aspect is often the least favourite requirement of the course for students and teachers, and the advice is simple and clear – covering how to write about things like body language, facial expression and gesture.
I would use BBC Bitesize for two purposes: to introduce students to the basics of a topic before working on it with them in detail, and for directing them to revise at the end of the process. Within the confines of KS4 there is a huge amount of content: these are good student-friendly resources and very easy to use.