Do I need any dance experience to take this course?

No, this qualification is specifically designed for beginners with no prior experience. You will learn everything from the basics, including simple movements, rhythms, and how to perform in a group. The focus is on building confidence and having fun while learning.

How is the dance part of the award assessed?

Assessment is continuous and based on practical observation. Your teacher will watch you perform short routines and participate in group activities. You'll be assessed on your ability to follow instructions, move in time to music, and work with others. There are no written exams.

What kind of dance styles will I learn?

The course covers basic movement patterns that can be applied to various styles, but typically includes simple routines inspired by contemporary, creative dance, and sometimes basic elements of street dance or musical theatre. The emphasis is on exploring movement rather than mastering a specific style.

Can this qualification lead to further study?

Yes, after completing Entry Level 1, you can progress to Entry Level 2 or 3 in Performing Arts, or move onto Level 1 qualifications. It also provides a foundation for GCSE Dance or BTEC Performing Arts if you choose to continue.

What if I'm shy or nervous about performing?

That's completely normal! The course is designed to be supportive and low-pressure. You'll start with simple exercises in a safe environment, and gradually build up to group performances. Many students find their confidence grows quickly as they realise everyone is learning together.

Do I need special clothing or shoes?

Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely is recommended, such as leggings, shorts, or tracksuit bottoms, and a t-shirt. Bare feet or soft dance shoes are typical for dance, but trainers are also acceptable. Avoid jeans or restrictive clothing.

Communicating with Dance

OPEN AWARDS

vocational

This subtopic focuses on foundational movement response skills, where learners listen and react to beat, rhythm, or vibration during warm-ups, move expressively to music, follow group directions, and demonstrate appreciation. It builds essential performance awareness and social interaction within a dance context.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

Open Awards Entry Level Award in Performing Arts (Entry 1) (RQF)

Topic Overview

The Open Awards Entry Level Award in Performing Arts (Entry 1) (RQF) is a foundational qualification designed to introduce students to the world of performing arts, including dance, drama, and music. This award focuses on building basic skills, confidence, and creativity through practical activities. Students explore simple performance techniques, develop an awareness of rhythm and movement, and learn to work collaboratively in a group setting. The qualification is ideal for those with little or no prior experience, providing a supportive stepping stone into further study or recreational participation in the arts.

In the dance component, students learn fundamental movement patterns, basic choreography, and how to express ideas through physical action. The course emphasises personal expression, coordination, and following simple instructions. Assessment is typically through observation of practical tasks, such as performing a short routine or participating in a group performance. This qualification not only develops artistic skills but also enhances communication, teamwork, and self-esteem, making it valuable for personal development and future learning in performing arts or related fields.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Basic movement vocabulary: Understanding and performing simple actions like walking, turning, jumping, and gesturing in time to music.
→Rhythm and timing: Keeping a steady beat and moving in sync with a musical pulse or count.
→Spatial awareness: Using personal and general space safely, avoiding collisions, and moving in different directions and levels.
→Expression and storytelling: Using facial expressions, body language, and simple gestures to convey a mood or narrative.
→Group work and cooperation: Following a leader, taking turns, and contributing to a shared performance.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

Be able to listen and respond to the beat /rhythm / vibration in a movement warm-up activity, Be able to move to the music/sound and talk about it, Be able to follow directions for taking part in a group dance activity, Be able to thank the tutor verbally and/or in movement

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for demonstrating the ability to clap, tap, or sway in time with a clear, simple beat during the warm-up activity.
Award credit for moving freely to music and verbally identifying a basic feature, such as ‘fast’ or ‘slow’.
Award credit for following a verbal or demonstrated direction (e.g., ‘move to the left’, ‘freeze’) during the group dance activity.
Award credit for offering thanks verbally (e.g., ‘thank you’) or through a clear, intentional movement (e.g., bow, wave).

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Practice keeping the beat by clapping or tapping along to a variety of music tracks at home to build confidence in timing.
💡During the warm-up, focus on feeling vibrations through the floor or body if the beat is hard to hear, especially for learners with hearing differences.
💡In group activities, always watch the tutor’s demonstrations and repeat the movement exactly before adding your own style.
💡Make your thanks clear and audible, or use a distinct, deliberate movement like a bow or a wave, and maintain eye contact with the tutor.
💡Focus on clear, deliberate movements rather than trying to be flashy. Examiners look for control and understanding of basic steps.
💡Always maintain eye contact with the audience or assessor during performance; this shows confidence and engagement.
💡Practice with music at home to improve your sense of timing. Even tapping your foot to a beat helps develop rhythm.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Confusing the beat with the rhythm pattern or melody, leading to movements that do not align with the pulse.
Moving without sustained connection to the music, such as stopping early or moving at an unchanging speed.
Not observing or listening to the tutor’s directional cues during group work, resulting in disjointed or missed actions.
Feeling self-conscious about expressing thanks, leading to mumbled words or incomplete gestures.
Misconception: You need to be naturally talented to do performing arts. Correction: Entry Level 1 is designed for beginners; the focus is on effort, participation, and enjoyment, not innate ability.
Misconception: Dance is just about copying the teacher. Correction: While imitation is part of learning, the course encourages personal creativity and interpretation within simple structures.
Misconception: Performing arts is only for those who want to be professional performers. Correction: This qualification builds transferable skills like confidence, communication, and teamwork useful in any career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•No formal prerequisites are required for this entry-level qualification. However, a willingness to participate in physical activity and work with others is beneficial.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Be able to listen and respond to the beat /rhythm / vibration in a movement warm-up activity, Be able to move to the music/sound and talk about it, Be able to follow directions for taking part in a group dance activity, Be able to thank the tutor verbally and/or in movement

Ready to learn?

AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

Communicating with Dance

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in OPEN AWARDS vocational Dance & Performing Arts