A balanced programme of study

The interrelated study of composition, performance and appreciation provides a rational and coherent framework for the study of dance as an art form. When following a balanced programme in dance, pupils should be involved in practical and theoretical activities intended to:

  • Develop their ability to explore and communicate ideas from their imagination, expressing them through the medium of movement and using the tools of choreography
  • Extend their capacity to perform to an audience using a range of movement vocabulary and demonstrating increasing expressive, physical and technical competence
  • Facilitate their appreciation of dance by developing critical thinking skills, expressing these through an increasing ability to describe, analyse, interpret and evaluate choreography and dancers' performances from their own work and the work of others, and to speak and write about this
  • Develop their ability to apply the skills of appreciation using self-reflective judgment in the practical context of creating their own work and performing dances
  • Introduce them to dances from a range of contexts so that they develop an understanding of different artistic and cultural traditions, and express this understanding in practical, verbal and written activities

Breadth of study is important, as a talented pupil may excel in more than one area.