Welcome to GCSE dance. This course allows you to learn about dance technique improve dance knowledge and learn about professional contemporary choreographers and eventually you will become a highly developed dancer by the end of year 11. Some of you will have lots of experience in dance, others may not. Do not worry, this course will allow you the opportunity to achieve and succeed.

Dance GCSE is mainly practical and you will be assessed throughout year 10 and 11 but it does involve a theory exam that will be completed at the end of year 11.

How does the course work?

The course is made up of 5 different modules, these are:

1)  Performance
2)  group/solo choreography
3)  Solo choreography
4) Set dance
5) theory

At the beginning of each assignment you will be given the unit description and the criteria that will be used in the assessment of your work. You should always be aware exactly what it is you need to do to get a A, B, C or D grade.

Course Outline

What do we expect from you?

• Attend all classes.
• Make sure that you are prepared for the lesson with dance kit which is: stretchy jogging bottoms/leggings and PE t-shirt/comfortable top
• Show your commitment to the course and respect for your group by being punctual
• Participate enthusiastically and be motivated in all lessons
• Be sure to read feedback on assignments carefully – This will help you improve the standard of your work.
• Keep record of your grades on your tracking sheets that we will provide for you.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand or you need things clarified.
• Respect all class mates when working together listen to their ideas
• Watch professional dance choreographies as they will help you with dance ideas and help you to understand the standard that the teacher is looking for

What can you expect from teachers?

In order to help you achieve your potential the teacher will:

• Ensure that you are aware of the requirements of the course, and know how to achieve your potential.
• Provide you with the opportunities you will need to complete the course.
• Give helpful feedback to allow you the chance to get the best grade possible
• Be available to open the studio at lunch and after school for extra support.

How is the course assessed?

What are assignments?

Assignments are projects that are set up by your teachers. At the beginning of each assignment you will be given an assignment sheet which explains everything that you need to do for the project.

Your teacher will always go over the assignment, and there will always be an opportunity to ask any questions.

You will be marked differently for each module but most of them include different boxes that concentrates on different elements such as technique, how create the work is and how much it has developed each box will be marked 1-5, 5 being excellent and 1 being poor the more marks you get the more likely you are to get a better grade.

Throughout the two years you the teacher will use these assessment sheets to mark you and you will also peer asses other student to help you understand the assessment process.

All of your assessments will be recorded so that the teacher can look over the work so she can assess you correctly it will also be used for you to look back on so that you can asses your self and correct yourself for next time.

What happens when the assignment is over and the work has been marked?

Work is recorded for proof so that if the examiner can not attend any of the assessment them he/she can asses you from the video recording

When you have finished the assignment and performed your finished choreography, the teacher will mark it and verifier may also second mark some of the groups work.
You will then be given your work and your grade back with some strengths and developments for next time

Are there any Studio rules that I should know about?

• All mobile phones must be switched off before the lesson begins
• No food including chewing gum, water is allowed
• Show respect to the studio and music equipment
• Meet deadlines – complete all home learning
• All criticism must be constructive
• Allow others to contribute
• Treat others how you wish to be treated yourself
• Keep personal issues outside of the classroom

When working in a dance studio you must be aware of various health and safety practices, including

• No student can operate the music system without the teachers permission
• Always make sure the studio and the changing rooms are tidy
• Enter the studio with motivation and dedication

Last but no means least

• NO NEGATIVITY
  
• YOU CAN DANCE
• THERE'S NO SUCH WORD AS CAN’T

Download the GCSE Dance Hand book!