AS/A2 AQA

The focus of this course is Contemporary technique, choreography and health and safety of the dancer. Students engage in critical thinking about dance, history, choreography and performance within their own work and in Professional repertoire.

AS Level
unit 1 – understanding Dance (3 areas):

The dancer as Performer: Knowledge and understanding of the demands made in practice and performance.

• The process and craft of choreography: own work and that of Professional repertoire.
• The significance of dances: own work and that of Professional repertoire. Assessment: A written paper (1hour and 30 minutes) 40% of AS marks, 20% of A2 marks.Essay style questions.

unit 2 - Choreography and Performance (3 areas):

• The process of choreographing a solo from investigation and research of ideas through to outcome.
• Performance of the solo choreography.
• The development of performance skills within a duo/trio performance context. Assessment: Practical coursework: 60% of AS marks, 30% of A2 marks Assessment: Practical assessment: performance of a solo and a trio set performance piece.

A2 Level
The focus of choreography is shifted towards group dance. Candidates continue lessons on health and safety.

unit 3 – Dance Appreciation: Content and Context (2 parts)

• An investigation of Modern Dance in Britain 1965 - 1985
• Critical analysis and appreciation of one set work. Assessment: Written paper (1hour 30 minutes) 25% of A2 (Two essay questions one on the area of study and one on the set work)

unit 4 – Group Choreography and solo performance (2 parts)

• The process of group choreography from investigation and research of ideas through to outcome.
• The development of solo performance skills in relation to a practitioner studied in unit 3. Assessment: Practical exam 25% of A2.

The assessment is in 2 parts Group choreography piece based on questions set from the exam board 2-3 minutes Solo performance piece related to a specific practitioner 2-3 minutes.

Preferred Entry Requirements
It is essential that candidates have at least 3 years experience in the field of Dance - Ballet, Modern or Contemporary Dance or have GCSE Dance.  The specification is designed for candidates who enjoy dancing but also have the discipline and determination to study the subject in depth.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.