Dance

Dance is a powerful and expressive subject which encourages students to develop their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, whatever their previous experience in the subject.  

 
EXAMINATION BOARD - AQA 

SPECIFICATION CODE - 8236  

CURRICULUM CONTENT 

The specification recognises the role of dance in young people’s lives and students will study a range of dance styles and style fusions. Apart from the solo performance, they can choose any style in which to perform and choreograph, providing it meets the assessment criteria.  

The study of six anthology professional works will develop their ability to critically appraise professional dance works and provide a springboard for engaging in practical tasks 

ASSESSMENT

Component 1 – Non Examined assessment (practical coursework 60%) 

  • Set phrases through a solo performance (approximately one minute in duration) 
  • Duet/trio performance (three minutes in a dance which is a maximum of five minutes in duration) 
  • Solo or group choreography – a solo (two to two and a half minutes) or a group dance for two to five dancers (three to three and a half minutes

 Component 2 – Dance Appreciation (Written Exam 40%) 

  • Knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills 
  • Critical appreciation of own work 
  • Critical appreciation of professional work 

 EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES 

Students participating in GCSE Dance will have the opportunity to perform and participate in a variety of performance opportunities through the academic year including but not limited to The Winter Concert, LETs Dance, College Musical, The Summer Arts Festival. There one or more education visit or trip opportunities in recent years students have been to see Hamilton in London and Birmingham Royal Ballet. 
 

PROGRESSION 

 Progression from GCSE Dance could include A Level Dance or Theatre, BTEC Level 3 following the dance, drama or musical theatre pathways. Full time study opportunities are available at higher and further education establishments locally and nationally. Past students have gone onto study dance in London, Birmingham and at full time dance colleges in Leicester. Careers that follow dance study could include; Dance performance, choreography, teaching and dance therapy.