Page 20 - Year 10 Course Brochure 2023-2025

DANCE

OPTION

COURSE CONTENT GCSE Dance follows three strands of learning; performance, choreography and
dance appreciation, and aims to develop knowledge, understanding and practical
experience of the wide range of dance choreographed and performed today. In Year
10, we develop the technical and expressive dance skills required for performance in
a diverse, modern range of styles and fusions, including contemporary dance,
modern ballet, hip hop, and dance for camera. This is supported by an appreciation
of six set works. The works offer a range of choreographic approaches and
structures, supporting the students’ own choreographic learning, from initial
stimulus and research to final performance, including the creation of a dance film
and live performance pieces. Year 11 builds on the explorations of Year 10 as
students prepare for final assessment pieces: a solo, a role in a group performance,
and the creation of their own choreography piece. Written tasks consolidate
students’ appreciation of set works, principles of choreography and performance
and their own dance experience.

APPROACH TO TEACHING Dance is a powerful and expressive subject which encourages students to develop
AND LEARNING their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, whatever their previous
dance experience.
All three strands of dance are interwoven in studio and classroom-based lessons.
Students will explore each set work practically, applying the choreographic
approach and movement style in a series of creative workshops and developed
pieces for performance. Dance technique and movement principles are embedded
into each practical session, alongside a strong working knowledge of safe dance
practice and dance skills for rehearsal and performance. Knowledge and
understanding is developed through observation and written analytical tasks in the
study of each choreographer, and used to support the realisation of the student’s
own choreographic voice.
Masterclasses from visiting dance companies and trips to live dance performances
aim to broaden students’ dance experiences and understanding.
ASSESSMENT This course is assessed in three ways:
1. Performance: a solo performance of selected phrases and a role in a duo/trio
created by the dance teacher or a visiting choreographer (30%, externally
moderated).
2. Choreography: a solo or group piece in response to a stimulus from a prescribed
list (30%, externally moderated).
3. A written exam on choreographic processes, performance skills and an
appreciation of the set works (40%, externally assessed).

FURTHER INFORMATION While previous dance experience is not essential, an interest and motivation in
expression through movement is vital for success. .

EXAM BOARD AND AQA GCSE Dance 8236
SPECIFICATION www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/dance/gcse/dance-8236/introduction

CONTACT Mrs R Fox
Director of Dance and Drama
fox.r@millfieldschool.com

18 YEAR 10/11 COURSE GUIDE