Graded Examination in South Asian Dance: Kathak: Grade 2 — Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts Revision
At Grade 2, learners build on foundational Kathak skills by performing simple movement sequences that integrate basic technique, rhythmic understanding, an
Topic Synopsis
At Grade 2, learners build on foundational Kathak skills by performing simple movement sequences that integrate basic technique, rhythmic understanding, and expressive quality. The focus is on clean execution of footwork (tatkar) in teentaal, coordinated hand gestures (hastaks), controlled turns (chakkars), and the ability to communicate a simple mood or story through abhinaya. This stage develops the performer's confidence and lays the groundwork for more complex compositions.
Key Concepts & Core Principles
- Turnout: The outward rotation of the legs from the hip joints, essential for ballet. In Grade 2, students must maintain a consistent turnout in exercises like pliés and tendus, avoiding rolling in of the ankles.
- Rhythm and Timing: In tap, students must execute steps like shuffle, flap, and ball change in time with the music. Understanding syncopation and maintaining a steady beat is crucial.
- Arm and Head Coordination: In ballet, port de bras (carriage of the arms) and épaulement (shoulder and head placement) are introduced. Students must coordinate arm movements with steps, such as in arabesque or chassé.
- Dynamic Contrast: In modern theatre dance, students learn to vary energy levels, from sharp, staccato movements to fluid, sustained ones. This adds expression and musicality to the performance.
- Spatial Awareness: All genres require awareness of personal and general space. In Grade 2, students must navigate formations and pathways without colliding, especially in group dances.
Exam Tips & Revision Strategies
- Practice each component (footwork, gestures, spins) separately to technical mastery before combining, then rehearse the full sequence slowly with emphasis on rhythmic accuracy.
- Internalise the taal by regularly reciting or playing the bols while dancing; this strengthens musicality and prevents rushing. In performance, project confidence by looking up and connecting with the audience, as presentation is assessed alongside technique.
Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing tatkar patterns to keep up with the beat, resulting in uneven sound and loss of rhythmic clarity.
- Failing to complete hastak movements or mudras when attention is divided between footwork, rhythm, and expression.
- Over-rotating during chakkars and losing balance due to insufficient core engagement or spotting technique.
- Displaying a disconnect between facial expression and body movement, making the performance appear disjointed or unemotional.
- Neglecting to maintain proper posture (torso erect, shoulders relaxed) when executing dynamic footwork or turns.
Examiner Marking Points
- Award credit for clear, even articulation of tatkar sequences in teentaal, with precise foot placement and consistent timing relative to the theka.
- Credit given for accurate and fluid use of hastaks (hand gestures) in coordination with footwork and body movements, maintaining classical alignment.
- Recognise effective use of facial expressions and basic abhinaya to convey a simple emotion or narrative element, even within technical sequences.
- Acknowledge controlled and balanced execution of chakkars (spins) where included, with clear spotting and return to stable posture.
- Reward overall presentation skills, including appropriate eye focus, confident entrance/exit, and engagement with the assessor/audience.