Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to add range and depth to performance skills in any dance style.
At this level, dancers are constantly refining their technique and expression to produce performances that convey the mood and style of music through complex dance movements. They could be preparing for performances in commercial or competition settings where they would usually be performing as members of an ensemble, though some solo work could be expected.
While supervision and guidance are provided in practice sessions and rehearsals, dancers are expected to display a high level of motivation and responsibility for themselves and others during live performances.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance Criteria Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Maintain a physical conditioning program | 1.1 In consultation with relevant personnel, identify a range of techniques to prevent injuries and improve stamina, strength and flexibility 1.2 Set realistic physical conditioning goals aimed at improving own dance technique 1.3 Identify risk factors that may inhibit the achievement of goals and seek professional advice as required 1.4 Take fatigue and personal limitations into account when undertaking physical conditioning program 1.5 Observe safe dance practice by performing warm-up and warm-down activities in conjunction with dance activities 1.6 Wear appropriate clothing and footwear when undertaking exercise regime and practising dance technique |
2. Use practice sessions to increase level of expertise in dance performance techniques | 2.1 Practise a range of exercises in preparation for dance performances 2.2 Develop expertise in performing with a partner or in an ensemble 2.3 Practise basic solo pieces as required 2.4 Extend techniques to give performances a range of dynamics 2.5 Use creativity, versatility, individuality and enthusiasm when performing exercises and dance routines 2.6 Ensure that flow and interaction with other dancers are smooth and well-timed |
3. Perform dances | 3.1 Undertake preparations appropriate to performance contexts 3.2 Ensure that personal presentation is appropriate to performance contexts 3.3 Prepare for competitions and auditions as required 3.4 Apply performance psychology techniques to preparations 3.5 Maintain focus to produce performances that relate dance movements to the music’s rhythm, melody and mood as required 3.6 Convey choreographic intent of dances through confident and precise execution of dance techniques 3.7 Contribute to debriefing sessions to evaluate quality of performances and to discuss ways of improving individual or ensemble technique |
4. Maintain expertise in dance performance techniques | 4.1 Practise and refine combinations of complex movements and sequences 4.2 Maintain and update knowledge of terminology associated with chosen dance style 4.3 Use feedback from others to identify and develop ways to improve own dance performance skills 4.4 Regularly view performances by industry practitioners as a way of sourcing new ideas, identifying trends, maintaining motivation, and improving own technique |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
perform dance sequences on at least two occasions that demonstrate:
ability to perform with strong stage presence and confidence
well-developed techniques in the chosen dance style
spatial awareness in relation to other performers
respond to constructive feedback on own skills development
follow safe dance practices
use terminology associated with chosen dance style correctly.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements the individual must:
explain how the following principles relate to performing dance sequences:
relationship with gravity
spatial awareness
successional movement
use of breath
folding
extending
rotating
shifting weight
explain how the following apply in the context of safe dance practice and injury prevention:
articulation of the spine
engagement of the feet
bases of support, including feet, legs, hands, arms and torso
range of motion of the joints
differentiation of the legs and pelvis
healthy nutrition and diet
explain and demonstrate:
key characteristics of relevant dance styles and genres when rehearsing and performing pieces
how the musical elements of time signatures, beat, tempo and syncopation apply to dance technique
describe ways to prepare for auditions and competitions
in the context of preparing for performances, describe:
performance psychology techniques
how aspects of stagecraft relate to dancers
describe the characteristics and history of chosen dance styles.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to appropriate dance performance areas or spaces with suitable flooring.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Learning | 1.1, 3.7, 4.3, 4.4 | Seeks the views and opinions of others to develop own understanding Observes industry practitioners, sources new ideas and identifies trends, and applies to own techniques |
Reading | 4.2 | Obtains information from written sources about terminology of chosen dance style |
Oral communication | 1.1, 1.3, 2.2, 3.7, 4.3 | Obtains information by listening and questioning Discusses ideas and solutions |
Navigate the world of work | 1.5, 1.6, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 | Follows accepted industry practices in relation to safe dance practices and injury-prevention strategies Prepares for auditions and competitions Takes responsibility for own professional development |
Interact with others | 1.1, 1.3, 2.2, 2.6, 3.6, 3.7, 4.3 | Works collaboratively to develop and improve dance techniques Communicates the mood or style of dances to audiences Builds rapport with dance partners and ensemble members |
Get the work done | 1.2, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 4.1 | Adopts a methodical, disciplined and positive approach to physical conditioning program, dance classes and evaluation of own skill development Dances with strong stage presence and confidence Employs physical control throughout performances Takes steps to minimise risk of injury through appropriate physical conditioning program |
Sectors
Performing arts - dance