Complete AQA A-Level Dance specification revision resources. Tailored syllabus coverage with topic breakdowns, quizzes, and practice questions.
Overview
The AQA A-Level Dance course offers a dynamic and rigorous exploration of dance as an art form, blending practical performance and choreography with in-depth theoretical study. Students develop their technical and expressive skills through solo and ensemble performances, while also cultivating their creative voice by choreographing original group works. This holistic approach ensures that learners not only become proficient dancers but also gain a deep understanding of the creative processes behind dance-making.
Central to the course is the critical engagement with professional repertoire, focusing on two contrasting set works: Christopher Bruce’s ‘Rooster’ and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s ‘Sutra’. Through analysis of these works, students learn to decode choreographic intent, movement vocabulary, and production elements. The specification also requires study of the Rambert Dance Company’s pivotal era (1966–2002) and the vibrant Independent Contemporary Dance Scene in Britain (2000–present), situating dance within broader cultural and historical contexts.
Structured to balance practice and theory equally, the AQA specification encourages students to reflect critically on their own work and that of professionals. It fosters transferable skills such as collaboration, analytical thinking, and creative problem-solving, making it an excellent foundation for further study or careers in the arts. The course is assessed through a combination of practical coursework and a written examination, providing a comprehensive measure of a student’s capabilities across all facets of dance.
Why Choose AQA for Dance?
AQA offers a well-balanced split between practical and written assessment, appealing to students who want equal recognition for performance, choreographic, and analytical skills. This structure avoids over-reliance on exam-only grading, allowing diverse talents to shine.
The specification’s focus on contemporary and seminal repertoire—‘Rooster’ and ‘Sutra’—provides an engaging and contrasting study that spans different styles and cultural influences, making the theoretical content vivid and relevant. Additionally, the deep dive into Rambert’s history connects learning to a living, evolving British dance institution.
AQA is widely respected and has extensive support materials, including detailed exemplars and clear marking criteria, which help students and teachers navigate both coursework and exam preparation with confidence. This accessibility makes it a popular choice for schools and colleges.
Assessment & Exam Structure
The A-Level Dance qualification is divided into two components, each worth 50% of the total marks. Component 1, ‘Performance and Choreography’, is internally assessed practical coursework, where students perform a solo in the style of a selected practitioner, perform as part of a quartet, and create an original group choreography. Component 2, ‘Critical Engagement’, is a 2-hour 30-minute written examination assessing knowledge and critical appreciation of the two set works, the compulsory area of study (Rambert Dance Company), and the optional area of study (the Independent Contemporary Dance Scene in Britain). The exam includes short-answer and extended-response questions, and the total A-Level is graded on the combined marks from both components.