Middle School Curriculum Booklet 25-27

Dance

AQA GCSE Dance 8236

Why study Dance? Dance is a powerful and expressive subject which encourages pupils to develop their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, whatever their previous experience in the subject. What does the course cover? The course recognises the role of dance in young people’s lives and so pupils will study a range of dance styles and style fusions, and engage in and enjoy performance. The course focuses on the aesthetic and artistic qualities of dance through the processes of performance, choreography and appreciation. The performance component involves the performing of set phrases through both a solo and a duet / trio performance. As part of the choreography component, pupils will produce a solo or group piece in response to a choice of themes or briefs. In Dance Appreciation, the study of the anthology of professional works will also develop pupils’ ability to appraise professional dance and provide a springboard for engaging in practical tasks. The anthology consists of six short professional dance works, each between 11 and 30 minutes duration.

How is the course assessed? The final grade awarded is based on assessment of two pieces of NEA and a written examination: Non-Examination Assessment: Performance 30% of final mark Candidates must perform dance in both: A solo performance (approximately one minute in duration) A duet or trio performance (three minutes in a dance which is a maximum of five minutes in duration) Non-Examination Assessment: Choreography 30% of final mark Candidates must choreograph a dance for a solo performance (two to two and a half minutes) or a group performance for two to five dancers (three to three and a half minutes). This must be supported by a written programme note. Candidates will answer questions to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills, a critical appreciation of their own work and a critical appreciation of professional works. Written Examination: Dance Appreciation 40% of final mark, 1 hour 30 minutes

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