Graded Examination in AcroDance: Grade 2
The Grade 2 AcroDance examination assesses candidates' ability to execute fundamental acrobatic skills with controlled technique and emerging performance quality. It focuses on the practical application of safe alignment, coordination, and terminology within choreographed sequences, demonstrating proficiency at a foundational level as outlined by RSL's Level 1 criteria for performing arts.
Assessment criteria
Quick Revision Summary (Key Takeaway)
The RSL Level 1 Award in Acrobatic Dance (Acrobatic Arts) Grade 2 is a graded performing arts qualification that assesses candidates' technical skills in acrobatic dance, including flexibility, strength, balance, and performance quality. This qualification focuses on safe and controlled execution of acrobatic movements, musicality, and choreographic understanding, preparing students for further study in dance and performing arts.
Topic Overview
The RSL Level 1 Award in Acrobatic Dance (Acrobatic Arts) Grade 2 is designed for students who have a basic foundation in acrobatic dance and are ready to refine their skills. This qualification covers a range of acrobatic movements, including rolls, cartwheels, balances, and introductory tumbling, all performed with attention to technique, control, and musicality. It also emphasizes the importance of safe practice, including proper warm-ups and understanding body alignment.
This grade is part of a graded examination system that assesses both practical skills and theoretical understanding. Students are expected to demonstrate not only the physical execution of movements but also knowledge of terminology, safety, and performance quality. The qualification is valuable for those pursuing further studies in dance, as it builds a strong technical foundation and encourages artistic expression.
In the wider context of performing arts, Grade 2 acrobatic dance helps students develop physical literacy, confidence, and discipline. It integrates elements of gymnastics and dance, fostering creativity and versatility. Success in this exam requires consistent practice, attention to detail, and a positive attitude towards feedback, all of which are essential skills for any performing artist.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Safe execution of acrobatic movements, including proper warm-up and cool-down routines.
- →Technical precision in skills such as forward rolls, cartwheels, and bridges.
- →Musicality and the ability to synchronize movements with rhythm and phrasing.
- →Performance quality, including facial expression, projection, and spatial awareness.
- →Knowledge of acrobatic dance terminology and the ability to apply it in practice.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of acrobatic terminology• demonstrate technical skills at a generally proficient level• demonstrate an understanding of placement, coordination, alignment, and control in the technicalskills• show an emerging understanding of square hips in forward splits• show bridges with weight centered between hands and feet• show handstands with an understanding of stacking and posture• demonstrate a fair awareness of performance, confidence, and poise
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for demonstrating accurate acrobatic terminology when identifying or describing movements and positions during the examination.
- Credit given for maintaining centered weight distribution in bridges, with hands and feet evenly placed and no collapse through the shoulders or hips.
- Award marks for showing square hips in forward splits, ensuring both hipbones face forward with the back leg rotated inward to avoid turnout.
- Credit for controlled handstand entries and holds, with clear vertical alignment of wrists, shoulders, hips, and ankles, demonstrating an understanding of stacking and posture.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Practice bridges with feet flat on the floor and hands shoulder-width apart, actively pushing through the heels to engage glutes and center the weight.
- 💡Use a mirror or video to check hip alignment in splits; square hips create a cleaner line and are a key distinguishing factor for higher marks.
- 💡Build handstand consistency by practicing kick-ups against a wall, focusing on pushing through the shoulders and keeping the core tight to maintain a straight body line.
- 💡Incorporate performance elements such as eye contact and intentional transitions to demonstrate a fair awareness of poise and confidence, which enhances the overall presentation.
- 💡Always prioritize safety: demonstrate a proper warm-up and use appropriate mats during practice and in the exam.
- 💡Practice performing your routine in front of others to build confidence and improve your projection and expression.
- 💡Pay attention to the details: pointed toes, straight legs, and clean landings can make the difference between a pass and a merit.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Collapsing through the shoulders or pushing the hips too high in bridges, which shifts weight unevenly between hands and feet.
- Allowing the back leg to turn out in forward splits, causing the hips to open and lose the square alignment crucial for credit.
- Arching the back or sagging through the lower spine during handstands, breaking the stacked line from hands to feet.
- Using incorrect terminology for acrobatic positions, which demonstrates a lack of knowledge and can limit marks awarded for understanding.
- Misconception: Acrobatic dance is just gymnastics; it doesn't require dance technique. Correction: Acrobatic dance integrates dance elements such as turnout, pointed feet, and fluid transitions, so both are essential.
- Misconception: You must be naturally flexible to pass. Correction: Flexibility can be developed with consistent stretching; technique and control are equally important.
- Misconception: Speed is more impressive than control. Correction: Controlled, precise movements are scored higher than rushed, sloppy ones.
Revision Plan
How to revise this topic in 1–2 weeks
- 1Week 1: Focus on technique. Practice each required acrobatic skill slowly, using mirrors to check alignment. Spend 15 minutes daily on flexibility exercises.
- 2Week 2: Work on combining skills into a sequence. Practice transitions between moves to ensure smooth flow. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
- 3Week 3: Add musicality. Choose a piece of music and practice performing your sequence to it, emphasizing timing and expression.
- 4Week 4: Simulate exam conditions. Perform your full routine for friends or family, and ask for feedback. Review the syllabus and mark scheme to ensure you meet all requirements.
Exam Question Types
How this topic typically appears in the exam
- 📋Practical demonstration of a set sequence of acrobatic movements, assessed on technique, control, and performance.
- 📋Viva voce questions about safety, terminology, and the benefits of acrobatic dance.
- 📋Choreography task: create a short acrobatic dance phrase to given music, demonstrating creativity and musicality.
Command Word Expectations (RSL AWARDS LTD)
What examiners look for when using specific command words in this specification
You must physically perform the skill or sequence, showing correct technique and control. The examiner will look for precision, alignment, and a confident finish.
Provide a clear verbal explanation of a technique or concept, using correct terminology. Include key points such as body position, safety, and purpose.
Give reasons and details for a process or idea, such as why a warm-up is important or how to develop flexibility. Use specific examples and link to practical application.
How Students Lose Marks (Examiner Pitfalls)
Common mark loss traps and how to write 100% full-mark answers
Step-by-Step Worked Solutions
Detailed solution breakdown for typical exam problems
Question: Describe the correct technique for performing a forward roll in acrobatic dance, including safety considerations.
- 1.Step 1: Start in a squat position with feet hip-width apart, placing hands shoulder-width apart on the floor.
- 2.Step 2: Tuck your chin to your chest and push off with your feet, rolling over your rounded back.
- 3.Step 3: Stand up smoothly, using your momentum, and finish in a controlled standing position with arms extended.
- 4.Step 4: Ensure you have a soft surface and sufficient space, and always warm up your spine and neck before attempting rolls.
Question: Explain how you would develop the strength and flexibility needed for a bridge (backbend) in Grade 2 acrobatic dance.
- 1.Step 1: Identify the key muscle groups: core, shoulders, and hip flexors for strength; spine and hamstrings for flexibility.
- 2.Step 2: Perform exercises like planks and shoulder bridges to build core and shoulder strength.
- 3.Step 3: Stretch the spine and hamstrings daily with exercises like cat-cow and seated forward folds.
- 4.Step 4: Practice the bridge gradually, using a wall or spotter, and hold the position for increasing time.
Active Recall Memory Test
Test your memory before revealing the key facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for RSL AWARDS LTD Graded Examination in AcroDance: Grade 2
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Basic acrobatic skills such as forward rolls, cartwheels, and bridges (Grade 1 level).
- •Understanding of basic dance terminology and rhythm.
- •Physical fitness and flexibility appropriate for beginner-level acrobatics.
Coursework AI Review
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Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of acrobatic terminology• demonstrate technical skills at a generally proficient level• demonstrate an understanding of placement, coordination, alignment, and control in the technicalskills• show an emerging understanding of square hips in forward splits• show bridges with weight centered between hands and feet• show handstands with an understanding of stacking and posture• demonstrate a fair awareness of performance, confidence, and poise
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