Dance

Subject Overview

GCSE Dance

It is highly recommended that students have had some prior dance training because of the demands of the course.

GCSE Dance Course Content

In Dance you will study performance, choreography and the appreciation of dance. You will develop skills practically as both a performer and choreographer. Dance will provide you with the transferable skills/qualities associated with group work, creative thinking, resilience, self-esteem and leadership. Dance will also enhance your development as a physically educated young person; dance is an area that allows you to use your bodies for expression, communication of moods, ideas and emotions. There will also be opportunities to develop other areas of the curriculum: dance and poetry, dance and art, dance and science concepts, dance and cultural learning.

Course Structure

Component 1: Performance and choreography (Practical)
For performance, students must perform two set phrases as a soloist (one minute) and in a duet/trio composition that is a minimum of three minutes in duration. Additionally, students will learn how to respond creatively to an externally set stimulus, to choreograph their own complete dance.

Component 2: Dance appreciation (Theory)
The question paper has three sections and covers: knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills, critical appreciation of own work and critical appreciation of professional works. Students will study six short professional works, which are choreographed by established choreographers. Works will cover a range of styles and style fusions including: ballet, urban, contemporary and dance from other cultures.

Component 3: Performance and Homework
Both practical and theory homework is set. Dance club is one evening after school and all GCSE Dance students are encouraged to attend. GCSE practical homework sessions with teacher guidance and supervision happen regularly.

Assessment

Exam Board – AQA

Practical Assessment: 60%

Written Exam: 40%

Course Progression

This GCSE will allow pupils to study Dance at AS and A-level, giving students the skills and experience to better prepare them for the demands of these courses.

Possible Careers

Dance Teacher, Choreographer, Performer, Dance Lecturer or Academic Researcher, Dance Education Specialist, Dance Movement Therapist, Dance Journalist, Costume/Set Design or Dance Producer.