Dance

Dance is an exploration of self-devised choreography, learnt choreography, movement theory, dance history, cultural dance and dance as social ritual. Dance is analysed through cultural and historical contexts as a significant and ancient expression of the human condition. Creative design includes the production elements of costume, lighting, sound and stage design. The work of pioneering choreographers and their impact on specific dance styles is investigated. Students analyse ways that ideas are communicated through dance and how dance styles, traditions and works can influence dance practice, the arts, artists and society more generally.

Content/Skills
In Year 10 Dance, students explore the body as an instrument, develop their dance technique and cultivate choreographic expression. Students train to enhance their physical skills of balance, flexibility, postural alignment, coordination, control, strength and stamina. Choreographers and dance styles are studied, enabling students to further enhance their own work through a global lens. Students develop creativity, ability to process criticism, aesthetic understanding, aesthetic control, collaboration, confidence, communication, critical thinking, and empathy. Dance is closely tied to physical, mental and emotional health. In this subject students will:
▶ create and perform solo or partner performances
▶ learn and rehearse whole class performances
▶ analyse significant dance works from famous choreographers
▶ train in technique class
▶ develop safe dance practice through an anatomically aware and safe use of the body
▶ develop skills required to learn and master movement sequences and demonstrate spatial awareness when dancing with others
▶ develop their understanding of choreographic processes and the processes for realising dance performances
▶ respond creatively and kinaesthetically to ideas, emotions, observations and explorations of movement to communicate an intention
▶ observe, experience and write about dance in an analytical, a critical and a reflective manner
▶ understand influences on dance works and the influences that these works have had on the arts, artists and society.