High Storrs 2014/15

This course is designed to meet the needs of students who wish to study dance in depth. You will gain experience of technique, choreography and performance. You will also be encouraged to think critically about dance. The course promotes progression and complexity of study demonstrated within the AS and A level examinations.

 At AS Level you will study the dancer as a performer, the process and craft of choreography and the significance of dances. You will create and perform a solo choreography and perform in a duet/trio. The written paper focuses on anatomy, various set works and the theory of choreography.  At A2 Level you will study a chosen area within ballet and modern dance and a set work in depth. You will create a group dance and perform a solo.

AS Level Unit 1: Written paper: Understanding Dance (1 ½ hour)  40% of total AS mark  20% of total A level mark Unit 2: Practical Coursework: Choreography and Performance  60% of total AS mark  30% of total A level mark

A2 Level Unit 3: Written Paper: Appreciation – Context and Content (1 ½ hour)  50% of total A2 mark  25% of total A level mark Unit 4: Practical Examination: Group Choreography and Solo Performance  50% of total A2 mark  25% of total A level mark

The A-level Dance results at High Storrs School have been consistently outstanding both within the school and nationally. In 2010, 2011 and % of students gained an A*-B grade and all students gained places at their first choice universities.

This course provides a suitable foundation for further study at Higher Education and a number of career opportunities in Dance. Students have furthered their studies at a number of universities and dance schools. Students have gained places at Northern School of Contemporary Dance School, Laban Centre, Phoenix Dance Company and Rationale Dance. One of our ex-students has a won the title UDO World Breakdance Champion. We have a number of trips, visits and master classes given by professional dancers every year.

The general entry requirements for studying Dance A-level apply. In addition you should have either a grade C in Dance at GCSE or a grade 5 Ballet or proven experience over a number of years in an alternative dance style. Other dance students should look at the Dance pathway available as an option within Performing Arts A-Level.