Dance & Performing Arts
Specification: 100/0061/6
The AQA-EDUCATION Vocational Dance & Performing Arts specification covers 3 topics with 7 learning objectives (100/0061/6). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
3
Units
7
Learning Outcomes
13
Assessment Guidance
12
Key Skills
Key Features
- Master key concepts
- Develop exam technique
- Apply knowledge effectively
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing the roles of deviser and director; assuming the deviser only writes the script rather than collaboratively creating the material.
- •Overlooking marketing and PR as separate from the creative process, failing to recognize the importance of audience engagement and promotion strategies.
- •Neglecting health and safety aspects during the rehearsal process, such as warm-ups, safe use of props, or venue hazards.
- •Describing technical elements superficially without analyzing their impact on the overall performance or narrative.
- •Students often confuse research with simply copying information without applying it to their own ideas.
- •Students may underestimate the importance of budgeting, leading to unrealistic plans.
- •Students may focus on the final presentation and neglect the process of idea development.
- •Students may overlook the need to tailor their communication style to the audience.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •When reviewing a performance, always structure your analysis around clear criteria: artistic intent, technical execution, and audience impact, and provide specific examples from the production.
- •For questions on roles, prepare a table comparing responsibilities across different production stages (pre-production, rehearsal, performance, post-production) to demonstrate depth.
- •In practical assignments, document your rehearsal process thoroughly, noting how you addressed health and safety, refined ideas, and incorporated feedback to meet the brief.
- •Link your creative choices to broader social or educational contexts when discussing devised work; show how your piece might engage a target audience or serve a community purpose.
- •Use a variety of research sources, including primary and secondary, and document them clearly.
- •Show evidence of experimentation and refinement in your idea development.
- •Create a detailed budget and timeline, and justify your choices.
- •Practice your presentation multiple times to ensure clarity and confidence.
Qualification Units
How this qualification is graded
Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.
Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.
Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.
Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.
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