Graded Examination in Contemporary Dance: Grade 6
This examination component assesses the dancer's ability to execute contemporary dance vocabulary with secure intermediate technique while communicating advanced performance qualities. Candidates must integrate musical interpretation—including phrasing, dynamics, and atmosphere—with precise rhythmic awareness and expressive intention. The synthesis of technical accuracy, artistic sensitivity, and embodied musicality is essential for demonstrating a holistic command of the grade 6 contemporary syllabus.
Assessment criteria
Quick Revision Summary (Key Takeaway)
The RSL Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 6 is an advanced qualification that assesses technical proficiency, performance quality, and choreographic understanding in dance. It requires candidates to demonstrate mastery of set exercises, a solo dance, and critical analysis of their own work, preparing them for further study or professional pathways.
Topic Overview
The RSL Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 6 is a significant milestone for dance students, typically taken after several years of training. It assesses not only physical technique but also the ability to perform with artistry and to understand the underlying principles of dance. The syllabus includes a range of genres, such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, or tap, and requires candidates to perform set exercises and a solo dance that they have prepared.
This qualification is designed to bridge the gap between intermediate and advanced levels, preparing students for further study in dance or for professional auditions. It emphasises the development of a personal style, the ability to interpret music, and the capacity to communicate emotion through movement. Additionally, it introduces critical thinking skills, as candidates must evaluate their own performances and understand the context of the dance styles they study.
In the wider context of performing arts education, Grade 6 is often a prerequisite for higher-level qualifications, such as the RSL Level 4 Diploma in Dance, or for entry into vocational dance schools. It also contributes to UCAS points, making it valuable for students applying to university courses in dance or performing arts. The skills developed, such as discipline, creativity, and self-reflection, are transferable to many other areas of study and employment.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Technical proficiency: mastery of alignment, control, coordination, and execution of movements specific to the chosen dance genre.
- →Performance quality: the ability to convey emotion, interpret music, and engage an audience through expression and dynamics.
- →Choreographic understanding: knowledge of how to structure a dance, use space, and apply compositional devices.
- →Self-evaluation: the skill of critically analysing one's own performance to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- →Musicality: the ability to move in harmony with the rhythm, tempo, and phrasing of the music.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- Demonstrate a clear knowledge and understanding of Contemporary vocabularyDemonstrate highly secure technical skills at an intermediate levelDemonstrate an understanding of a range of rhythmicalsounds, accents and timingsDemonstrate an understanding of musical interpretationincluding:a) Phrasingb) Dynamicsc) AtmosphereDemonstrate the use of expression and performance skills appropriately at an advanced level
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for demonstrating highly secure technical skills, including precise alignment, controlled transitions, and clarity in intermediate-level contemporary vocabulary such as fall and recovery, off-balance tilts, and articulated spinal movement.
- Expect evidence of nuanced musical interpretation: credit phrasing that reflects the music's structure, dynamic range (e.g., sharp accents versus sustained flow), and atmospheric engagement that matches the mood of the accompaniment.
- Assess the integration of advanced performance skills—look for focused projection, emotional authenticity, and sustained energy throughout the dance, avoiding technical demonstration only.
- Credit rhythmic accuracy and timing: the dancer should respond to complex rhythmic patterns, syncopations, and accents with clear physical attack and release.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Treat the examination as a performance rather than a test of steps—maintain eye contact, commit to the emotional journey of the piece, and breathe through the movement to enhance presence.
- 💡Explore the music outside the studio: analyse its structure, emotional peaks, and dynamic shifts, then rehearse with intention to embody these elements physically.
- 💡Prioritise quality over quantity in technical execution: it is better to perform movements at a controlled, correct level than to push beyond your secure range and incur deductions.
- 💡Practice performing in front of others to build confidence and stage presence. Examiners look for candidates who can communicate with the audience, not just execute movements.
- 💡Record your practice sessions and review them critically. This helps you identify areas for improvement and develop your self-evaluation skills, which are directly assessed.
- 💡Pay attention to the details: the finishing positions, the clarity of movements, and the use of breath. These small elements can make a big difference in the overall impression.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Students often prioritize technical execution over performance quality, resulting in a disconnected or expressionless presentation despite correct steps.
- A common misconception is that musical interpretation only involves counting beats, leading to neglect of phrasing and dynamics, which are essential for advanced grading.
- Many candidates rush through transitions and lose alignment, particularly when combining off-centre movements with expression, causing a breakdown in both technique and artistry.
- Misconception: Grade 6 is only about performing the steps correctly. Correction: While technical accuracy is important, examiners also assess performance quality, musicality, and expression. A technically perfect but emotionless performance will not achieve top marks.
- Misconception: You must be extremely flexible or have a 'perfect' body to pass. Correction: The exam rewards control, alignment, and artistry, not extreme flexibility. Many successful candidates have a range of body types and abilities.
- Misconception: The written or oral evaluation is not important. Correction: The self-evaluation component is a significant part of the assessment and requires specific, critical analysis. It is worth a substantial number of marks.
Revision Plan
How to revise this topic in 1–2 weeks
- 1Week 1: Review the syllabus requirements and mark scheme. Identify your strengths and weaknesses in technique, performance, and evaluation.
- 2Week 2: Focus on refining the set exercises. Break them down into sections and practise slowly, paying attention to alignment and control.
- 3Week 3: Develop your solo dance. Work on musicality and expression, and consider how you use space and dynamics.
- 4Week 4: Practise self-evaluation by recording your performances and writing or verbalising critiques. Use the mark scheme criteria to guide your analysis.
- 5Week 5: Simulate exam conditions by performing your full programme in front of a friend or teacher. Get feedback and make final adjustments.
Exam Question Types
How this topic typically appears in the exam
- 📋Practical performance of set exercises: You will be asked to perform a series of exercises that demonstrate your technical skills. Practice them with precision and attention to detail.
- 📋Solo dance performance: You will perform a solo dance that you have prepared. Focus on performance quality and communication.
- 📋Self-evaluation (written or oral): You may be asked to discuss your performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Use specific examples and suggest how you would improve.
- 📋Viva voce or written questions on dance knowledge: You may be asked about the genre, its history, or choreographic principles. Be prepared to discuss these topics.
Command Word Expectations (RSL AWARDS LTD)
What examiners look for when using specific command words in this specification
Break down the movement or performance into its constituent parts, explaining how each contributes to the whole. Use technical terminology and refer to specific moments in the dance.
Make a judgement about the quality or effectiveness of a performance, using criteria from the mark scheme. Justify your opinion with evidence and suggest improvements.
Give a detailed account of what you did or what is required, including specific movements, dynamics, and spatial elements. Avoid vague statements.
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: Analyse a given dance phrase from your Grade 6 syllabus. Identify three key technical elements and explain how you would perform them to achieve full marks.
- 1.Step 1: Identify the dance phrase and its key technical elements (e.g., pirouette, grand jeté, or développé).
- 2.Step 2: For each element, describe the correct alignment, control, and coordination required.
- 3.Step 3: Explain how to incorporate dynamics, musicality, and expression to enhance the performance.
Question: Evaluate the importance of spatial awareness in a solo dance performance. Provide two examples of how you would use space effectively.
- 1.Step 1: Define spatial awareness in dance (use of levels, pathways, and directions).
- 2.Step 2: Explain why it is important for visual impact and communication.
- 3.Step 3: Give specific examples, such as using a diagonal pathway to create tension or changing levels to highlight a musical accent.
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 Contemporary Dance: Grade 6
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
- •RSL Level 2 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 4 or 5, or equivalent experience.
- •A solid foundation in dance technique, including basic ballet, contemporary, or jazz skills.
- •Understanding of musical timing and rhythm.
Coursework AI Review
Paste your assignment brief and check your draft against its P/M/D criteria
Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- Demonstrate a clear knowledge and understanding of Contemporary vocabularyDemonstrate highly secure technical skills at an intermediate levelDemonstrate an understanding of a range of rhythmicalsounds, accents and timingsDemonstrate an understanding of musical interpretationincluding:a) Phrasingb) Dynamicsc) AtmosphereDemonstrate the use of expression and performance skills appropriately at an advanced level
Ready to learn?
AI-powered learning tailored to this unit