Dance
GCE Advanced Level AS/A2
Course Content
AS Module 1 - Understanding Dance
In this unit you will study dance based anatomy and physiology, safe studio practice, treatment of injuries and analysis of professional dance works. This is a theoretical unit with a written examination.
AS Module 2 - Choreography and Performance
This is a practical unit which requires you to choreograph and perform a solo dance from a given stimuli and perform in a group dance which has been choreographed by the teacher or a visiting artist.
A2 Module 3 - Dance Appreciation: Content and Context
This is a theoretical unit which will involve an in-depth study of a specified period of dance history chosen from American Musical, Ballet or Modern Dance, and detailed analysis of Revelations a dance work by Alvin Ailey. There is a written examination at the end of this unit.
A2 Module 4 - Group Choreography and Solo Performance
This practical unit requires you to perform a solo dance of between 2 and 3 minutes long which is influenced by the work of a professional dance artist that you have studied during the course. You also choreograph a group dance from a given stimuli in which you do not dance yourself.
How it is Taught
The course contains a mixture of written and practical examinations and practical coursework. The course will be practically based with one theory lesson per week. As an A Level Dance Student you can expect to take regular Contemporary Dance technique class, participate in choreographic workshops and improvisation classes, perform your work solo and as part of a group and receive regular classroom based tuition of dance theory.
Examination Details
| AS Module 1 | 40% of total AS marks | 1 hour 30 mins written exam |
| AS Module 2 | 60% of total AS marks | Practical Coursework |
| A2 Module 3 | 50% of total A2 marks | 1 hour 30 mins written exam |
| A2 Module 4 | 50% of total A2 marks | Practical Examination |
Entry Requirements
- Students should have at least a GCSE grade C in English.
- Students should also meet the general college entry requirements for advanced level study. Please see the QE college prospectus for the entry requirements.
- Significant previous experience of dance is required.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
Dance can be taken in combination with any other subjects. Complimentary subjects include
- PE, Sport & PE, Drama & Theatre Studies, Performance Studies, Media and other English based subjects.
- Psychology/Sociology and Health & Social Care for Dance Therapy.
- Travel & Tourism for cruise ships.
Careers and HE Information
Soon after the 1997 election The Government introduced Dance & Drama Awards in recognition of the fact that the UK is at the forefront of Drama & Dance training.
Dance Degrees have increased significantly in the last 10 years and the emphasis on creativity, personal effectiveness and preparation skills are useful in any career.