Dance

What is it like to study GCSE Dance?

Assessment:

Practical Exam (60%)

Performance: You will perform a short solo using a series of phrases taught to you by your teacher. These will be assessed by video. You will be marked on your technical competence and the accuracy of reproduction of the action, dynamics and space. Next you will perform an exciting and creative duo/trio which can be in any style, with the final performance lasting between 3.5 minutes and 5 minutes. This will be devised by your teacher and is your chance to really shine.

Choreography: You will choreograph a dance using 2-5 dancers lasting three minutes in duration. You will be given a variety of tasks of unique and interesting stimuli to explore and investigate set by the exam board.

Written Exam (40%) - Dance appreciation:
You will sit a 1hour 30minute written exam made up of 3 sections:
1. Section A: Knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills.
2. Section B: Critical appreciation of your own work.
3. Section C: Critical appreciation of professional works.
You will learn your theoretical knowledge largely through practical and creative tasks.

Who is the course for?

The course is designed for students wanting to further develop both practical and theoretical dance skills in a variety of contexts, and also for those wanting a creative pathway. Dance students will be expected to study choreography, practical performance and to engage in critical thinking about dance. Genres included on the course are Contemporary dance, Ballet, Street dance, African and Modern dance. Students will be expected to perform as a solo performer and within groups on a regular basis.

 Students who want to study dance should be:
• Enthusiastic and full of energy
• Successful in co-operating in a variety of groups
• Be open minded to new and different styles of dance and choreography
• A good writer who is keen to appreciate professional dance and performances
• Able to reflect on their own work, and the work of others and of the professional repertoire, in detail and with a critical awareness
• Reliable with excellent attendance

What will I do on the course?

The Dance GCSE is made up of practical and written elements. Practical work allows the students to engage in a wide variety of genres from contemporary to urban dance whilst improving their technical ability. Lessons are high energy and allows for students to be creative and collaborative.

This is a highly practical course where you will learn through creating, composing and performing dance. The written element is embedded through practical exploration.