GCSE Dance  

Introduction 

This course is open to all students with an interest in the dance component of performing arts.  The aims of the course are as follows:- 

(a)        To develop understanding and appreciation of a range of dance styles.

(b)        To develop aesthetic and artistic sensibility to dance works.

(c)        To develop the knowledge, skills an understanding needed to perform, choreograph and appreciate dance including and awareness of its artistic contexts.

(d)        To develop life skills and attributes including decision making, critical and creative thinking, aesthetic sensitivity and the ability to co-operate with others.  

 Assessment

There are 3 components to this course:-  

1.           Written paper               2 hours                         20% of total mark

2.           Practical Examination   (Set study)                                20% of total mark

3.           Course work – Performance and Choreography             60% of total mark  

Grade Descriptions  

Grade A

The candidate responds to the chosen task in an informed, imaginative and sensitive matter.  There is evidence of highly refined and articulate work which, in addition, shows imaginative and sensitive personal interpretation and evaluation.  There is sophistication in combining excellence in body control with full exploration of personal artistry.  Performance is sincere and convincing with a high level of sensitivity to other dancer.  In choreography work, there will be a complex use of rhythms, dynamic and spatial combinations.  There is evidence of extremely effective use of contrast, climax and logical sequencing.  The whole work demonstrates considerable understanding of choreographic form.  The Expanded Programme Note is perceptive and evaluative.  In dance appreciation, the candidate is able to show informed opinion, detailed knowledge and perceptive understanding within relevant historical and social contexts.    

Grade C  

The candidate responds to show understanding of the chosen task.  There is evidence of imagination and sensitivity, interpretation and evaluation within well-structured work.  There is, in performance, competent technical skill and a degree of individually and artistry in expressing the essence of the dance.  Choreographic work shows logical form with a variety of structural elements.  There is evidence of some pleasing aspects of rhythmic, dynamic and spatial interest in the developments of the original idea.  The whole work shows unity.  The Expanded Programme Note demonstrates the inter-relatedness of purpose and dance content.  In dance appreciation the candidate makes links between movement and meaning, and makes informed judgements with reference to historical and social contexts.  

Grade F

   The candidate responds at a minimal level to provide work of a sufficient length which is recognisable as the candidates own invention or making.  Interpretation and evaluation are only occasionally demonstrated.  In performance, the basic meaning of the dance is communicated.  At times, there is some degree of technical awareness.  There is, in choreographic work, a response to the initial idea, evidence of limited structure and simple dance vocabulary.  The Expanded Programme Note identifies dance purpose and some content.  The candidate shows slight knowledge and understanding of dance appreciation.  

Progression  

Succession in this course will lay an appropriate foundation for further study in dance and/or performing arts.

Department Information

Mr. T. Sturgess – Director of Specialsism

Mrs. J. Noble – Partnership Development Manager

Mr. A. Graham – Leader of Learning

Miss. K. McAughtrie – Head of Girls

Mr. G. Quinn – Teacher I/C of BTEC

Mr. A. Saunders – School Sports Co-ordinator

Ms. M. Thompstone – Head of Year 7

Miss. J. Freer – Dance Specialist

Mrs. M. Biggin - SENCO

Mr. C. Egan

Mrs. S. Cottrill – Sports College Administrator

Mr. J. Holroyd – Sports Development Officer   

OHSL

At St John Fisher Catholic School, we strive to offer a varied and enjoyable extra curricular programme. The extra curricular programme contributes to the “5 hour offer” whereby pupils should experience 5 hours high quality PE and sport per week. Pupils are encouraged to partake in as much extra curricular sport as possible. Extra curricular participation gives pupils the opportunity to develop socially as well as physically and allows pupils to experience a wide range of traditional and non traditional activities.