Dance A2

Dance AS/A Level
Art, Media, Technology, Perf Art, Music & Dance
Board and Syllabus details
Board: AQA - Syllabus: AS Level (5231), A Level (6231)
About the subject
The AS and A2 Dance courses are divided into 4 main areas; performance, choreography, analysis and the dancer in action. Theoretical classes include study of professional choreographers focusing in detail on 5 works for AS and an additional work for the A2 course. Study of anatomy in the classroom supports the students' practical training and develops an awareness of healthy lifestyle and safe practicing for the dancing body. Students take a weekly technique class covering a range of different styles during the course including release, Cunningham, jazz, Graham and Ballet. Creative skills are developed through choreography classes and students have several opportunities to publicly perform their own work.
New ground, Collyers' student dance company provides further opportunities for students to perform, create work and also experience the production, management and administrative side of the dance profession. Theatre trips, residences and workshops with visiting companies also form an important part of the enrichment programme.

Learning Styles
The course includes both practical and theatrical lessons. Below are listed some of the teaching and learning situations that you will experience:- Lecture, Seminar, Discussion, Video Analysis, Questioning, Dictation, Essay Writing, Reading, Research, Independent study (CD Rom, Internet), Presentation, Peer teaching and Evaluation, Practical Demonstration, Improvisation, Practical tasks, Sharing and Feedback, Independent Rehearsal.
Subject combinations and progression
Dance can be combined with subjects such as music, drama and Theatre studies, for those wishing to pursue a career in the Performing Arts. Alternatively dance can form part of a broad programme of study combined with a range of other subjects. A level dance provides good preparation for further dance training. Dance can be studied at undergraduate and postgraduate level, as a single discipline or as a part of a combined degree with a vast range of subjects.
Subject modules and assessment
Unit 1: Understanding dance
Written paper, 1 hour 30 minutes
40% of total AS marks, 20% of total A level marks
60 marks
Unit 2: Choreography and performance
Practical Coursework
60% of total AS marks, 30% of total A Level marks
90 marks
Section A - solo choreography and performance (60 marks)
Section B - performance in a duo/trio (30 marks)
Unit 3: Content and Context
Written paper: 1 hour 30 minutes
25% of total A Level marks
80 marks
Unit 4: Group choreography and solo performance
Practical examination
25% of total A Level marks
75 Marks
Section A: Group choreography 45 marks
Section B: Solo performance 30 marks

Entry Requirements
C in English Language.