Why should I study this subject?
Are you passionate about movement? Do you dance regularly outside of school? Can you communicate an interpretation through your choice of movements? Then this is the course for you!
In order to be accepted on to the dance qualification, you will need to be part of an audition process and explain your commitment to dance outside of school.
What will I study?
In the first stages of the course, you will explore performances in a range of styles, looking at professional, existing works and creating your own performances in response to them. After this, you will take a performance from initial ideas to final production, working on briefs set by the exam board.
The course is made up of three areas:
Performance: You will complete a solo performance incorporating set phrases from the exam board. You will also perform in a duo/trio performance addressing other areas of dance and performance.
Choreography: You will be involved in the development and improvement of choreographing work as both solo performer and as part of a group. You will need to take support and inspiration from other areas of the course to develop your skills to produce your final work.
Dance appreciation: You will study a range of choreographic and dance performances building knowledge and understanding of intent. You will learn how to apply a critical approach to not only your own work but that of dance professionals as well. You will watch and review professional performances both on stage and live streamed.
How will I be assessed?
Your performance and choreography components are internally assessed and filmed before being sent to the exam board for moderation.
Your performance assessment will be a solo and a duo/trio piece consisting of 30% of your qualification.
The choreography assessment consists of a solo or group choreography based on a particular theme and makes up 30% of your qualification.
The final 40% is an externally marked exam and assesses your knowledge of professional works and your own practice in performance and choreography. It is 1 hour 30 minutes and will have long and short style questions to answer.
What skills will I learn?
In theory lessons, you will learn about:
The six set professional works
Analyse the use of choreographic processes, choreographic devices, lighting, set, costume, accompaniment and movement material in each set work and your own work
How to answer exam style questions in relation to your own practical work and professional work
In practical lessons, you will:
Develop your performance and choreography skills further
Learn the two solo dances and group performance pieces required for your GCSE practical exam
Be introduced to choreography questions and devise either a group or solo piece of choreography
What equipment will I need?
You will need to be suitably dressed for practical lessons: full PE kit is appropriate attire. Occasionally, you may be asked to provide items of clothing as costumes for your performance, though this will rarely be at any cost to you (if ever). You will need to demonstrate the following skills in all lessons:
Motivation and enthusiasm
Confidence in performing
Creative ideas and an open mind ready to try different styles of dance
The ability to work in small groups and on your own
A reasonable level of physical skill - flexibility, strength and coordination.
The ability to understand dance key terms and use them in written work
A reflective mind allowing you to evaluate and improve
The ability to plan, perform and evaluate
How will this subject help to develop my sense of character and culture?
Dance styles are extremely varied and cover an array of topics. We will study performances from a ranges of cultures and styles, including topics that may challenge your perspective.
Dance will help you become a confident member of society, celebrate diversity, achieve your aspirations through creativity and commitment and help you to secure a better understanding of your own values.
Where can this subject take me?
This course will offer a progressive route through to, BTEC Level 3, AS and A-levels.
You may decide to study Dance further and follow a profession in any of the following; Dancer, Choreographer, Dance Teacher, Dance Therapist.
Your teacher will be happy to share knowledge of linked professions with you.
What other subjects would complement my learning in this qualification?
For more information please contact: RLU@thehayfieldschool.co.uk