What should I focus on for Edexcel GCSE Dance?

In the written exam, refer to specific examples from the set works to illustrate how physical skills contribute to the choreographic intent

What should I focus on for Edexcel GCSE Dance? (2)

During the performance assessment, ensure your warm-up adequately prepares you for the required physical demands to minimise injury risk and optimise execution

What should I focus on for Edexcel GCSE Dance? (3)

Use video recordings of your practice to self-assess posture and alignment, identifying areas for improvement before assessment

What are common mistakes in Edexcel GCSE Dance?

Confusing correct alignment with rigidity, leading to tension and reduced fluidity

What are common mistakes in Edexcel GCSE Dance? (2)

Neglecting stamina training, resulting in loss of technical accuracy towards the end of a piece

What are common mistakes in Edexcel GCSE Dance? (3)

Overemphasising one dynamic at the expense of contrast, making the performance monotonous

Dance

Edexcel

GCSE

Specification: Pearson-GCSE-Dance

This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

Topics

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

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Key Features

Master key concepts
Develop exam technique
Apply knowledge effectively

Assessment Objectives

AO1

30%

Perform dance, reflecting choreographic intention through physical, technical and expressive skills

AO2

30%

Create dance, including movement material and aural setting, to communicate choreographic intention

AO3

15%

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills

AO4

25%

Critically appreciate own works and professional works, through making analytical, interpretive and evaluative judgements

What Gets Top Grades

A*/Grade 9

Knowledge & Understanding

Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

Uses correct subject-specific terminology
Shows detailed understanding of concepts
Makes accurate connections between topics
Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

Application

Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

Selects relevant knowledge for the question
Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
Uses examples appropriately
Shows awareness of context

Analysis & Evaluation

Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

Constructs logical chains of reasoning
Considers multiple perspectives
Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
Acknowledges limitations and nuances

Key Command Words

Edexcel

State

1 mark

Give a single fact or term

Identify

1 mark

Name, select, or recognise

Outline

2 marks

Set out main features briefly

Describe

2-4 marks

Give an account of what something is like or what happens

Explain

3-6 marks

Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

Compare

2-4 marks

State similarities AND differences (both required)

Analyse

6-9 marks

Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

Evaluate

6-12 marks

Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

Assess

6-12 marks

Make judgments about importance with justification

Calculate

2-4 marks

Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

Common Exam Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

•Confusing correct alignment with rigidity, leading to tension and reduced fluidity
•Neglecting stamina training, resulting in loss of technical accuracy towards the end of a piece
•Overemphasising one dynamic at the expense of contrast, making the performance monotonous
•Focusing on flexibility without strength, causing instability in balances or extensions

Top Examiner Tips

Expert advice for exam success

•In the written exam, refer to specific examples from the set works to illustrate how physical skills contribute to the choreographic intent
•During the performance assessment, ensure your warm-up adequately prepares you for the required physical demands to minimise injury risk and optimise execution
•Use video recordings of your practice to self-assess posture and alignment, identifying areas for improvement before assessment

Specification Topics

1 topics

E2E stub topic

This element focuses on the development and application of physical skills and attributes essential for effective dance performance, including posture, alignment, coordination, and stamina. Students explore how these skills underpin technically accurate and expressive execution of movement material, enabling them to meet the physical demands of set works and choreography. Practical application through regular training and performance preparation is central to achieving proficiency.

E2E stub subtopic

0 objectives3 tips4 pitfalls

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