Graded Examination in Tap Dance: Grade 2 — RSL Awards Ltd Vocationally-Related Qualification Dance & Performing Arts Revision

    This subtopic assesses a candidate's ability to execute fundamental tap dance steps and combinations with clear technique, accurate rhythm, and emerging pe

    Topic Synopsis

    This subtopic assesses a candidate's ability to execute fundamental tap dance steps and combinations with clear technique, accurate rhythm, and emerging performance quality. It builds the foundation for more complex choreography and musical interpretation in tap dance.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Graded Examination in Tap Dance: Grade 2

    RSL AWARDS LTD
    vocational

    This subtopic assesses a candidate's ability to execute fundamental tap dance steps and combinations with clear technique, accurate rhythm, and emerging performance quality. It builds the foundation for more complex choreography and musical interpretation in tap dance.

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

    Assessment criteria

    RSL Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 2

    Topic Overview

    The RSL Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 2 is a foundational qualification designed to develop and assess your technical skills, musicality, and performance quality in dance. This grade builds upon the basics learned in Grade 1, introducing more complex movements, rhythms, and choreographic patterns. You will study a set syllabus that includes specific exercises and a dance routine, focusing on precision, timing, and expression. Success in this exam demonstrates a solid understanding of dance fundamentals and prepares you for higher-level study.

    This qualification is part of the RSL Awards Ltd Performing Arts Graded Examination suite, which is widely recognised across the UK. Grade 2 is equivalent to a Level 1 qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), meaning it contributes to your broader educational development. The exam assesses three core areas: technique (correct alignment, placement, and execution of steps), musicality (responding to rhythm and tempo), and performance (confidence, facial expression, and storytelling). Mastering these elements not only helps you pass the exam but also builds a strong foundation for any dance style you pursue in the future.

    In the wider context of performing arts, dance at this level enhances your physical coordination, discipline, and creativity. It also develops transferable skills such as memory (learning sequences), teamwork (if you practise with others), and self-presentation. Whether you aim to continue with RSL exams, explore other dance styles, or simply enjoy dancing as a hobby, Grade 2 provides a structured and rewarding challenge that boosts your confidence and technical ability.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Alignment and Posture: Maintaining a straight spine, engaged core, and correct placement of feet and arms throughout movements to prevent injury and improve line.
    • →Rhythm and Timing: Accurately counting beats (e.g., 4/4 or 3/4 time) and synchronising your movements with the music, including accents and pauses.
    • →Turnout and Footwork: Rotating legs from the hips (not knees) and executing steps like pliés, tendus, and glissés with pointed feet and controlled landings.
    • →Performance Quality: Using facial expressions, eye contact, and energy to convey the mood of the dance, making it engaging for an audience.
    • →Memory and Sequencing: Learning and recalling a set exercise and a dance routine without prompts, transitioning smoothly between movements.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of basic techniques in Tap Dance, Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of musicality in Tap Dance, Be able to show an awareness of performance in Tap Dance

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating correct placement of the balls and heels of the feet in basic tap steps such as shuffles, flaps, and ball changes.
    • Credit accurate musical timing, with steps clearly landing on the intended beats of the music, and an awareness of tempo changes.
    • Credit an engaged and focused performance, including appropriate eye contact, facial expression, and upright posture throughout the sequence.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡Listen carefully to the introductory counts or music to internalize the tempo and style before beginning your sequence.
    • 💡Practice combining steps with simple arm movements to enhance coordination and overall presentation.
    • 💡Use the entire performance space and project your energy outwards, even in a small examination room.
    • 💡Practise with the music from the start. Many students learn steps in silence and then struggle to match the tempo. Use the official RSL backing tracks to internalise the rhythm and phrasing.
    • 💡Focus on your transitions. The way you move between positions (e.g., from a plié to a tendu) should be smooth and controlled. Jerky or rushed transitions can disrupt the flow and lose marks.
    • 💡Show confidence even if you make a mistake. If you slip or forget a step, keep going with a smile. Examiners reward recovery and performance quality over perfection.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Confusing the rhythm of a shuffle and a flap, leading to unclear sounds and a lack of distinct articulation.
    • Tensing the ankles and knees, resulting in heavy, laboured tapping rather than light, precise movements.
    • Looking at the floor throughout the performance, missing connection with the examiner and undermining performance quality.
    • Misconception: 'I only need to remember the steps.' Correction: While remembering steps is important, examiners also assess how you perform them—your posture, musicality, and expression matter just as much.
    • Misconception: 'Pointing my feet is optional.' Correction: Pointed feet are a fundamental requirement in dance technique. Failing to point consistently can lose marks, as it shows lack of control and attention to detail.
    • Misconception: 'I can improvise if I forget a step.' Correction: The exam requires you to follow the set syllabus exactly. Improvising or changing steps will result in lost marks for accuracy and memory.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •RSL Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance - Grade 1 (or equivalent experience) to ensure you have basic dance vocabulary and coordination.
    • •Understanding of basic dance positions (first, second, third, fourth, fifth) and simple steps like plié, tendu, and sautés.
    • •Ability to follow a structured class and take direction from a teacher, as Grade 2 requires more independent recall and correction.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of basic techniques in Tap Dance, Be able to perform simple movement sequences showing an awareness of musicality in Tap Dance, Be able to show an awareness of performance in Tap Dance

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