The Arts

Boys Dance

Focusing on physical strength, co-ordination, rhythm, as well as self-discipline, self-esteem, imagination, and confidence, boys only dance allows male students opportunities to express themselves creatively in a secure and controlled environment. Students learn to solve problems creatively, use imaginative resources, and develop self-discipline through structured technique classes and workshops. Visiting performing artists, including ex-student Gavin Clarke, provide students with a variety of disciplines, genres and dance related activities.

A major focus in this class is physical strength and agility, allowing students to gain the stamina and ability to attempt floor moves such as hand stands, freezers, worms, windmills, six-step, spins etc. in hip-hop/break dancing technique. Students have the opportunity to make use of the new weights/cardio room in physical conditioning classes. Students have the opportunity to participate in performances to family and friends, both in a formal and informal setting. Other presentation possibilities include; assembly, Christmas pageant and class demonstrations.

Year 9

The focus in year 9 dance is composition and performance. Students are introduced to dance as a discipline, as well as being given opportunities to build on previous knowledge. A wide range of genres are included in the curriculum to expose students to a variety of techniques and styles, though contemporary and hip hop genres tend to predominate. This curriculum is largely experiential, and is therefore suited both to beginners and experienced dancers. Students will gain knowledge and understanding in co-ordination, balance, physical ability, rhythm and musicality.

In year 9 dance students will be offered to be involved in a formal performance to family and friends. Students who do not wish to participate in performing, have the opportunity to help in a backstage role such as; stage managing, costume design, sound, lighting, props or choreography. Students will learn how to stage and market a performance, as well as be involved in the excitement of a final performance with make-up and costumes.

Other performance opportunities include; Arts showcase, the Mount Gambier High School Christmas Pageant, school assembly, and special events, e.g. Centenary Celebrations.

Year 10

Year 10 Dance builds on technique skills to develop and refine movement vocabulary. Students further develop skills learned in year 9, though beginners can still take part in the curriculum without being disadvantaged. Composition becomes more of a focus, where students learn to create new and inventive movement, working largely in groups to construct compositions to be showcased in the final performance. Dance analysis and response are introduced to students through the viewing of various dances and research into dance history, allowing further development and understanding.

Students are provided with the chance to participate in workshops, in and out of school, with guest performing artists and teachers. Working toward a performance outcome, students gain knowledge and understanding in aspects of performance, e.g. marketing, backstage, choreography etc. Other performance opportunities include; Arts showcase, the Mount Gambier High School Christmas Pageant, school assembly, and special events, e.g. Centenary Celebrations.

Year 11

In year 11, the focus in Dance shifts slightly towards dance analysis, though still with an emphasis on dance performance and technique. Students continue to refine their technique in preparation for the end-of-semester performance and exam. Analysis and history of dance is studied through theory lessons, where students have the opportunity to view professional-level dance performances through history. Students will look in depth at the history and structure of an Australian dance company to aid in understanding of dance at a professional level. Year 11 Dance is a prerequisite for Year 12 Dance and Year 12 Dance Studies.

Technique classes are a little more intense with the lead up to stage 2 dance. Contemporary dance tends to dominate, as this style allows for greater expression and creative communication. Students will learn where and how this style developed over time

Year 12 Dance

Year 12 Dance Studies consists of four components: technique, choreography, performance and analysis. The latter takes the form of an external exam. Through the course of the year, students studying at this elite level are expected to be able to produce original and creative movements in a three minute piece, perform in a group production and a technique class of 90 minutes.

Students studying year 12 Dance will gain knowledge in integrating intellectual, physical, creative, and emotional elements in communication with other people. As a means of communication, dance is used to express shared beliefs, record experiences, present concepts, and explore opinions and feelings, through the experimentation and improvisation of movement. Dancers at this level will develop skills in choreography and take responsibility for group dancers in productions.

Students will also have the opportunity to be involved in workshops in and out of school, excursions involving viewing major dance performances, and some extra rehearsals, usually around performance times.

Courses offered

Level	Courses Offered	Duration/Value
Year 9	Dance	Semester
	Dance - Boys Only	Semester
Year 10	Dance A and B	Semester or Full Year
	Dance - Boys Only	Semester
Stage 1	Dance	10 Credits
Stage2	Dance	20 Credits
	Dance Studies	20 Credits