Dance

Year 7 look at characterisation and combine dance and drama skills to portray different characters within the dance. Students are assessed at the end of each module on their performance and choreographic skills. In the choreography modules students are graded based on their own original choice of movement and the communication of their intent to the audience. All practical assessments are filmed which allows self-assessment. This is an important process which requires students to reflect upon their work and performance and allows them to set targets for improvement.

Throughout KS3 parents can encourage students to practice and rehearse at home in front of an audience or in front of a mirror to allow feedback and refinement.

If possible, take your child to see any live performances of dance or musical theatre. The theatre is always a wonderful experience for children and will certainly inspire them further.

The music we use in class is easily available to buy or download and this would enable your child to rehearse more successfully at home. The tracks used are:

Year 7
• These Boots - ‘These Boots' by Nancy Sinatra
• James Bond - ‘The James Bond Theme' by John Barry, The ultimate James Bond Collection
• Musical Theatre - ‘Mungojerry and Rumpleteazer' The Cats original Soundtrack.

Year 8
• A Brief History of Dance - Bob Marley
• Carnival - ‘Shake Your Bon Bon' by Ricky Martin
• Physical Theatre - Various by Royksopp on the Melody A.M. album

Year 9
• Post Modern Dance - Sitting, waiting, wishing by Jack Johnson plus various
• Contemporary Dance - Bat Country - Avenged Sevenfold
• Commercial Dance - Blues Brothers soundtrack, Night Fever soundtrack, Footloose soundtrack, High School Musical soundtrack, Step Up soundtrack.

DANCE GCSE (AQA 3231)

What kind of work goes into the Dance GCSE?

• The Dance GCSE is divided into three main areas: performance, choreography, fitness and looks.
• Students will learn about dance as an art form both practically and theoretically and lessons will often combine skills to create a holistic teaching approach.
• Students will study at least 5 professional works and choreographers in depth. As well as learning and performing the professional repertoire they will also study lighting, costume and set design.
• Students will work on their technique and dance skills in contemporary dance as well as being able to explore different styles within the syllabus.
• The GCSE is an exploration of the creative and expressive possibilities within dance
• GCSE Dance students will be expected to perform in at least one of the many shows held by Melbourn Village College. This may be an arts collaboration project with history or drama, or a pure dance show. It can be in any style or form the students wish.
• By taking advantage of as many opportunities as possible these performances increase students' enjoyment and success in the subject.