Dance

Dance GCSE

 AQA - 8236

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Learners will develop skills, knowledge and understanding of dance as a choreographer, performer and critic through a mixture of practical and theory lessons. Throughout the course, learners will have the opportunity to:

• Apply and adapt a wide range of skills and techniques effectively in performing and choreographing dance.

• Create dances for a range of purposes and in relation to different stimuli.

• Develop the ability to analyse, evaluate and appreciate dance.

This GCSE course will appeal to anyone with a strong interest in dance but a desire to perform and choreograph is essential. The course has a practical emphasis of 60% weighted against the written element at 40%.

HOW WILL MY LEARNING BE ASSESSED?

Internally marked and externally moderated:

Component 1: Performance

Performance – 30% of overall grade.

• Solo performance of two set phrases = 12 marks.

• Duet/trio performance = 24 marks.

Choreography – 30% of overall grade.

• Solo or group choreography = 40 marks. 

Component 2: Dance Appreciation – 40% of overall grade.

• Written examination paper = 80 marks.  

NB: All work for the choreography unit must be the work of one choreographer therefore all learners need to complete the composition task themselves to fulfill the requirements of the unit.

WHY WOULD THIS COURSE BE SUITABLE FOR ME?

During the two years, you will be required to work independently, in duos and in groups. Basic skills and techniques will be taught and experimented with to a variety of music and through a range of styles. However, the majority of the course is taught using contemporary dance techniques and styles. Theoretical elements of the course include the study of professional works by a range of choreographers, which will be reinforced within practical workshops. Further support for learning in this subject will be gained through participation in regular dance productions, taking part in workshops with professional dancers and trips to see live dance performed locally. 

The practical nature of the course is appealing but any student wishing to follow the course must recognise that lessons will be physically demanding and there will be occasions when rehearsals will take place after school. Theory lessons will be an integral part of the course so students need to be prepared for this in order to build the skills and knowledge required for the written examination. Success in this subject can only be achieved through total commitment and full participation in both practical and theoretical lessons. 

HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT IT? 

See Mr Williams

chris.williams@tas-tkat.org