Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 1 — National Association of Teachers of Dancing Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts Revision

    This topic assesses basic ballet technique, musicality, and performance at Grade 1 level. Learners perform simple movement sequences with awareness of post

    Topic Synopsis

    This topic assesses basic ballet technique, musicality, and performance at Grade 1 level. Learners perform simple movement sequences with awareness of posture and timing.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 1

    NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TEACHERS OF DANCING
    vocational

    This topic assesses basic ballet technique, musicality, and performance at Grade 1 level. Learners perform simple movement sequences with awareness of posture and timing.

    1
    Learning Outcomes
    3
    Assessment Guidance
    3
    Key Skills
    1
    Key Terms
    4
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    NATD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1

    Topic Overview

    The NATD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1 is an introductory qualification designed for students aged 5 and above who are beginning their formal training in dance. This examination focuses on building a strong foundation in technique, musicality, and performance skills across various dance styles, including ballet, tap, and modern theatre. The syllabus is structured to develop coordination, rhythm, and confidence through a series of set exercises, dances, and improvisation tasks. Achieving this award demonstrates that a student can perform basic dance movements with accuracy and expression, preparing them for progression to higher grades.

    This qualification is part of the National Association of Teachers of Dancing (NATD) Performing Arts Graded Examination suite, which is recognised by Ofqual and regulated in England. Grade 1 serves as a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue dance recreationally or professionally. It is particularly important because it instils discipline, body awareness, and an appreciation for performance from an early age. The examination also encourages creativity through improvisation, allowing students to explore movement in a structured yet imaginative way.

    In the wider context of dance education, Grade 1 lays the groundwork for technical proficiency and artistic expression. Students who pass this award often progress to Grade 2 and beyond, eventually working towards higher-level qualifications that can contribute to UCAS points for university entry. For teachers and parents, this award provides a clear benchmark of a student's progress and readiness for more advanced training. The NATD syllabus is designed to be inclusive, catering to a range of abilities and learning styles, making it an excellent starting point for any young dancer.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Posture and alignment: Maintaining a straight spine, engaged core, and correct placement of feet and arms during all exercises, especially in ballet positions like first and second position.
    • →Rhythm and timing: Understanding basic musical counts (e.g., 4/4 time) and being able to move in time with the music, including starting on the correct beat and finishing with the music.
    • →Basic ballet positions: Mastery of first, second, and third positions of the feet, as well as arm positions like bras bas and first position, with correct turnout from the hips.
    • →Tap sounds and clarity: Producing clear, distinct sounds with the feet in basic tap steps such as shuffles, stamps, and toe taps, ensuring weight transfer is controlled.
    • →Performance quality: Using facial expression, focus, and energy to engage an audience, even in simple exercises, demonstrating confidence and enjoyment.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of basic technique in Ballet, Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of musicality in Ballet, Be able to show an awareness of performance in Ballet

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Demonstrate correct posture and alignment.
    • Perform sequences in time with the music.
    • Show expression and focus during performance.
    • Execute basic steps such as pliés and tendus.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Warm up properly before the exam.
    • 💡Listen carefully to the music before starting.
    • 💡Smile and show confidence even if nervous.
    • 💡Smile and show enjoyment: Examiners look for enthusiasm and confidence. Even if you make a mistake, keep going with a positive attitude. A genuine smile can improve your overall performance mark.
    • 💡Listen to the music carefully: Before starting, take a moment to hear the tempo and rhythm. Start moving exactly on the first beat of the music. If you're unsure, watch the examiner's cue or count in your head.
    • 💡Focus on finishing positions: Hold your final pose for a few seconds after the music stops. A strong, still finish shows control and awareness. Avoid rushing off stage or relaxing too early.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Forgetting to point toes or straighten knees.
    • Losing timing when transitioning between steps.
    • Looking down at feet instead of maintaining focus.
    • Misconception: 'Turnout comes from the feet.' Correction: Turnout should originate from the hips, not the feet. Forcing the feet to turn out can cause knee and ankle injuries. Students should rotate from the hip joint while keeping knees aligned over toes.
    • Misconception: 'Tap steps just need to be fast.' Correction: Clarity and precision are more important than speed. Each tap sound should be distinct and controlled. Practising slowly with a metronome helps develop clean technique.
    • Misconception: 'Arms are just for decoration.' Correction: Arm movements (port de bras) are integral to dance quality and help with balance and expression. In Grade 1, arms should be held firmly but gracefully, not floppy or stiff.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •Basic motor skills: Students should be able to skip, hop, and balance on one foot for a few seconds, as these movements are foundational for Grade 1 exercises.
    • •Familiarity with a classroom setting: Understanding how to follow simple instructions, take turns, and work in a group is helpful, as the exam may include group work or partner exercises.
    • •No formal dance training required: Grade 1 is designed for beginners, so no prior dance experience is necessary. However, some exposure to music and rhythm (e.g., clapping to a beat) is beneficial.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of basic technique in Ballet, Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of musicality in Ballet, Be able to show an awareness of performance in Ballet

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