📚 Mini Site 5 · Section A · 5.3
Section A: Question Bank
Section A Q7–Q12 · 60+ practice questions · All formats · Full mark-scheme reveals
📚 What you will learn on this page
- Work through 60+ practice questions across all five formats
- Tap to reveal each mark scheme — see which answers score and which don't
- Test yourself on all 15 MCQ category and definition questions
💡
How to use this page
For each question, write your answer mentally (or on paper), then reveal the mark scheme. If you missed a mark, note exactly what was missing — usually one ingredient, or a vague phrase where a specific one was needed.
☑️ Multiple Choice — 15 questions
Test yourself on category identification and definitions · answer all, then Submit
Which category does spatial awareness belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which category does counterpoint belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is a Physical skill?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which category does movement memory belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is NOT an expressive skill?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is a Safe Practice skill?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which category does moving in a stylistically accurate way belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is a mental skill used during performance (not just rehearsal)?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is NOT a physical skill?
MCQ — 1 mark
Sensitivity to other dancers is a Duet/Trio only skill. Which category does it belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which definition correctly describes expressive skills?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is a Duet/Trio only skill?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which category does phrasing belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which category does systematic repetition belong to?
MCQ — 1 mark
Which of these is the correct definition of rehearsal discipline?
MCQ — 1 mark
📸Screenshot your score and paste into your ePortfolio.
📋 Recipe
- 1-mark version: one key idea from the specification definition.
- 2-mark version: both ingredients must be present. One alone = 1/2.
- Exact wording is not required — but both ideas must be clearly there.
- Writing more than the definition does not score more marks.
✏️
Both ingredients must be present for 2/2
Use the table below as your reference. Know it — these are the definitions that appear most often.
| Skill | Marks | Ingredient 1 | Ingredient 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | 2m | start/stop movement and/or change direction | hold a shape efficiently |
| Isolation | 2m | independent | movement of part of the body |
| Counterpoint | 2m | different phrases | at the same time / simultaneously |
| Timing | 2m | use of time or counts | matching movements to sound and/or other dancers |
| Expressive skills | 2m | performance artistry | engage the audience |
| Projection (demonstrate) | 2m | specific physical action described | explains how it draws in the audience |
| Stamina | 1m | ability to maintain physical and mental energy over periods of time | |
| Mental rehearsal | 1m | thinking through or visualising the dance | |
| Phrasing | 1m | the way in which energy is distributed in the execution of a movement phrase | |
| Movement memory | 1m | automatic recall of learned movement material without conscious thought | |
| Flexibility | 1m | range of movement in the joints (muscles, tendons and ligaments) | |
❌ 1/2 only1m
Control means being able to stop and start when dancing.Missing: 'hold a shape efficiently' — the second ingredient.
✓ Full marks2m
The ability to start and stop movement, change direction and hold a shape efficiently.Both ingredients present.
2 marksDefine the term isolation.
[1m] An independent movement...
[1m] ...of part of the body.
Full: An independent movement of part of the body.⚠️ Do NOT define isolation as 'performing alone in space' — scores 0.
[1m] ...of part of the body.
Full: An independent movement of part of the body.⚠️ Do NOT define isolation as 'performing alone in space' — scores 0.
2 marksDefine the term counterpoint.
[1m] When dancers perform different phrases...
[1m] ...simultaneously / at the same time.
⚠️ Counterpoint ≠ canon. Canon = same phrase at different times. Counterpoint = different phrases simultaneously.
[1m] ...simultaneously / at the same time.
⚠️ Counterpoint ≠ canon. Canon = same phrase at different times. Counterpoint = different phrases simultaneously.
1 markDefine the term stamina.
[1m] Ability to maintain physical and mental energy over periods of time.
Note: both physical AND mental must be present even for the 1-mark answer.
Note: both physical AND mental must be present even for the 1-mark answer.
2 marksDefine the term expressive skills.
[1m] Aspects that contribute to performance artistry...
[1m] ...that engage the audience.
[1m] ...that engage the audience.
2 marksDefine the term timing.
[1m] The use of time or counts...
[1m] ...when matching movements to sound and/or other dancers.
[1m] ...when matching movements to sound and/or other dancers.
1 markDefine the term mental rehearsal.
[1m] Thinking through or visualising the dance.
1 markDefine the term phrasing.
[1m] The way in which energy is distributed in the execution of a movement phrase.
1 markDefine the term movement memory.
[1m] The automatic recall of learned movement material without conscious thought.
⚠️ Movement memory is a MENTAL skill (MC³) — not a Technical skill.
⚠️ Movement memory is a MENTAL skill (MC³) — not a Technical skill.
1 markDefine the term flexibility.
[1m] Range of movement in the joints — involving muscles, tendons and ligaments.
2 marksDescribe one way a dancer can demonstrate projection.
[1m] Describes a specific action — e.g. directing the gaze outward; extending lines to fingertips; using the whole body as the performance channel.
[1m] Explains how this connects with or draws in the audience.
Full: 'Direct the gaze toward the back of the hall [1m] so the outward energy creates a visible connection with the audience, making the performance feel directed at them. [1m]'The second mark requires an explanation of effect on the audience — not just a second action.
[1m] Explains how this connects with or draws in the audience.
Full: 'Direct the gaze toward the back of the hall [1m] so the outward energy creates a visible connection with the audience, making the performance feel directed at them. [1m]'The second mark requires an explanation of effect on the audience — not just a second action.
📋 Recipe
- Write two clearly distinct reasons — not the same point rephrased.
- Each reason = 1 mark. Giving more than two is fine — the best two are marked.
- Each reason must name the specific effect on performance, health or safety.
⚠️
Vague reasons score 0."It makes you dance better" = 0. A specific, nameable physiological or performance effect is required.
⚠️
Cool-down ≠ warm-up."Prevents injury" = warm-up reason. For cool-down, see section 5.2.3 for the exact language required.
2 marksGive two reasons why warming up is important.
- Increases blood flow and raises the heart rate, warming the muscles and reducing risk of strains and tears
- Mentally prepares the dancer, improving focus and concentration before performing
- Lubricates the joints, improving range of movement
- Increases flexibility, reducing risk of injury
2 marksGive two reasons why cooling down is important.
- Gradually lowers heart rate and breathing to a safe resting level
- Helps disperse lactic acid from the muscles, reducing post-performance soreness
- Prevents blood pooling in the veins/legs
- Reduces core body temperature gradually
2 marksGive two reasons why stamina is important for a dancer.
- Maintains quality of movement throughout — without stamina, timing slips and precision is lost
- Allows the dancer to build toward a climax and sustain energy in the most demanding sections
- Sustains mental focus, reducing risk of errors caused by fatigue
2 marksGive two reasons why hydration is important.
- Prevents cramp, allowing muscles to work efficiently throughout
- Prevents dizziness that would affect balance and spatial awareness
- Prevents build-up of lactic acid, supporting sustained performance
- Regulates body temperature
2 marksGive two reasons why appropriate dancewear is important.
- Allows the teacher or examiner to see body lines and alignment clearly
- Jewellery removed — rings and piercings can catch or cut other dancers during contact work
- Appropriate footwear reduces the risk of slipping
- Suitable clothing allows freedom of movement
2 marksGive two reasons why nutrition is important for a dancer.
- Provides energy for stamina — prevents fatigue during demanding sections
- Poor nutrition causes dizziness and loss of concentration, directly affecting performance quality
- Supports muscle recovery between rehearsals
2 marksGive two reasons why balance is important in performance.
- Creates moments of stillness and visual impact that communicate control and intention
- Allows the dancer to hit a musical accent precisely, emphasising the structure of the phrase
- Demonstrates technical precision, making the performance look polished and deliberate
2 marksGive two reasons why focus is important in performance.
- Suggests character and emotion — a deliberate focus line communicates intent to the audience
- Makes the performance look confident and purposeful, engaging the audience
- Prevents the dancer from looking uncertain or distracted, which undermines the performance quality
2 marksGive two reasons why mobility is important for a dancer.
- Allows the dancer to move fluently from action to action, making transitions look effortless
- Supports full use of the performance space — the dancer can cover the stage without restriction
2 marksGive two reasons why phrasing is important in performance.
- Creates light and shade within the phrase — not everything at the same intensity, which adds interest and variety
- Allows the energy of the movement to match the musical phrase, making the performance feel musical and expressive rather than mechanical
📋 Recipe
- Write two specific, actionable methods that directly address the skill.
- Each method = 1 mark. Must be specific enough to be followed in a studio.
- For demonstrate questions: specific action [1m] + explains audience effect [1m].
⚠️
"Practise more" = 0.A named, specific technique is required — e.g. "count aloud during rehearsal" or "use peripheral vision to monitor other dancers".
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Physical skills vs other skills
For physical skills, give a specific exercise (what the dancer does). For Technical, Expressive and Mental skills, give a specific method (how they work in the studio). Section 5.2 has the full reference lists.
2 marksGive two ways to improve timing when performing in a group.
- Count aloud during rehearsal until the counts are fully internalised
- Use peripheral vision to stay aware of other dancers without looking directly at them
- Film yourself alongside the music and verify accents hit on the correct counts
- Use a count grid to plan which beats each movement falls on
2 marksGive two ways to improve musicality.
- Listen carefully to the music and identify rhythm, dynamics and mood — then practise hitting musical accents precisely
- Work on phrasing — match the length and energy of each movement phrase to the musical phrase
- Count beats internally and practise hitting accents in the movement
2 marksGive two ways to improve coordination.
- Combine different body parts progressively — start with two, then layer in a third and fourth
- Rhythmic exercises: clap whilst stepping to a pattern, building complexity over time
- Cross-lateral exercises — e.g. right arm with left leg moving simultaneously
- Systematic repetition of the most complex phrases at slow tempo first
2 marksGive two ways to improve projection.
- Perform to a live audience — even an audience of one changes the quality of energy directed outward
- Fix a focus point at the back of the studio as your 'audience' and direct energy toward it throughout
- Film yourself and assess whether the energy reaches the camera or stays inside your body
2 marksGive two ways to improve sensitivity to other dancers.
- Contact improvisation exercises — respond to your partner's weight and direction without looking at them
- Use peripheral vision during rehearsal rather than watching your own reflection
- Debrief after each run-through: discuss what you responded to and what you missed
2 marksGive two ways to improve movement memory.
- Systematic repetition of weak sections in isolation — methodical, targeted repetition builds muscle memory
- Mental rehearsal — visualise the full phrase away from the studio to reinforce sequencing
- Run the phrase backwards from the final section to test that memory is robust
2 marksGive two ways to improve dynamic content.
- Use a count grid to plan exactly where dynamics shift within the phrase
- Film yourself and identify which FASST pair you default to — then practise its opposite
- Isolate one section and perform it with three different FASST pairs to develop range
2 marksGive two ways to improve flexibility.
- Developé sequence — extend working leg forward, side and back, holding each position for 4 counts
- Regular active stretching of hamstrings, hip flexors and spine after each session while muscles are warm
- Static holds during cool-down — hold each stretch for 15–20 seconds to gradually increase range
2 marksGive two ways to improve focus.
- Practise in the mirror — is your eye-line purposeful or drifting? Identify specific moments where focus breaks
- Film yourself and watch back with the sound turned off — does your focus communicate the intended quality?
- Explore how different focus directions (downward, outward, toward a partner) change the emotional quality
2 marksGive two pieces of advice for performing a safe contact lift.
- Both dancers must be fully warmed up before attempting any lift
- Communicate clearly before each attempt — agree on timing and each dancer's role
- Practise progressively, beginning with supported balances before the full lift
- Use core strength, not momentum, to support the lift
- Use a spotter when learning a new lift
📋 Recipe
- 1 mark: brief but specific — names the exercise and indicates what the dancer does.
- 2 marks: detailed — what the dancer does, how, plus duration / repetitions / progression.
- Specific enough that someone else could replicate it from your words alone.
⚠️
Naming alone = 1 mark only."Shoulder rolls" = 1m. "Shoulder rolls starting small and slow for 8 counts, then gradually increasing size for 8 counts to progressively increase range of movement" = 2m.
❌ 1/2 only1m
Relevés on one leg to improve balance.Names a valid exercise [1m] but gives no detail of how to perform it, for how long, or how to progress.
✓ Full marks2m
Standing passé balance — rise onto one supporting leg with the working foot placed at the knee, holding for 4–8 counts. Begin with one hand on the barre, then progress to fully free-standing unsupported holds over successive attempts.Names it [1m] + describes the action, includes progression [1m].
2 marksDescribe one exercise to warm up the shoulders.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (shoulder rolls, arm circles, cross-body stretch).
[1m] Describes it clearly enough to replicate — duration, repetitions or progression.
Full: 'Shoulder rolls — starting small and slow for 8 counts backwards, then gradually increasing the size for a further 8 counts to progressively increase the range of movement.'
[1m] Describes it clearly enough to replicate — duration, repetitions or progression.
Full: 'Shoulder rolls — starting small and slow for 8 counts backwards, then gradually increasing the size for a further 8 counts to progressively increase the range of movement.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise a dancer could use to improve their balance.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (passé balance, arabesque balance, relevé hold).
[1m] Describes with sufficient detail — body position, duration or progression.
Full: 'Passé balance — rise onto one supporting leg, working foot at the knee. Begin with hand on barre, progress to fully free-standing holds of 4–8 counts.'
[1m] Describes with sufficient detail — body position, duration or progression.
Full: 'Passé balance — rise onto one supporting leg, working foot at the knee. Begin with hand on barre, progress to fully free-standing holds of 4–8 counts.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise a dancer could do to cool down after a performance.
[1m] Names a relevant cool-down exercise (hamstring stretch, spinal roll-down, standing quad stretch).
[1m] Describes it — position, hold duration, breathing or progression.
Full: 'Seated hamstring stretch — sit with both legs extended, reach forward along the shins toward the feet, hold 15–20 seconds, breathing slowly throughout. Repeat each side.'
[1m] Describes it — position, hold duration, breathing or progression.
Full: 'Seated hamstring stretch — sit with both legs extended, reach forward along the shins toward the feet, hold 15–20 seconds, breathing slowly throughout. Repeat each side.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise to improve stamina.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (phrase repetition circuit, cardio warm-up, interval training).
[1m] Describes it with repetitions, rest periods or progressive challenge.
Full: 'Phrase circuit — perform the full phrase 3× consecutively with only 30-second rests. Add a 3-minute cardiovascular warm-up (jogging, travelling sequences) at the start of each session to build aerobic base.'
[1m] Describes it with repetitions, rest periods or progressive challenge.
Full: 'Phrase circuit — perform the full phrase 3× consecutively with only 30-second rests. Add a 3-minute cardiovascular warm-up (jogging, travelling sequences) at the start of each session to build aerobic base.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise to improve coordination.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (layered port de bras, cross-lateral pattern, rhythm clapping).
[1m] Describes what the dancer does, how, including a progression.
Full: 'Layer a port de bras pattern onto a known footwork phrase; begin slowly and increase tempo over 4 repetitions. Then add cross-body patterns (right arm with left leg) for greater challenge.'
[1m] Describes what the dancer does, how, including a progression.
Full: 'Layer a port de bras pattern onto a known footwork phrase; begin slowly and increase tempo over 4 repetitions. Then add cross-body patterns (right arm with left leg) for greater challenge.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise to improve flexibility.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (developé sequence, active stretch, static hold).
[1m] Describes body position, duration and any progression.
Full: 'Developé sequence — standing on one leg, extend the working leg forward, to the side and to the back, holding each position for 4 counts. Follow with active hamstring stretches held for 15 seconds each.'
[1m] Describes body position, duration and any progression.
Full: 'Developé sequence — standing on one leg, extend the working leg forward, to the side and to the back, holding each position for 4 counts. Follow with active hamstring stretches held for 15 seconds each.'
2 marksDescribe one exercise to improve isolation.
[1m] Names a relevant exercise (body-part sequence, stop-motion drill, rib cage shift).
[1m] Describes what body part moves and how the rest stays still.
Full: 'Body-part sequence — move only the head (all planes: nods, tilts, circles) while keeping the rest of the body completely still. Repeat for shoulders, then chest, rib cage, and hips in turn.'
[1m] Describes what body part moves and how the rest stays still.
Full: 'Body-part sequence — move only the head (all planes: nods, tilts, circles) while keeping the rest of the body completely still. Repeat for shoulders, then chest, rib cage, and hips in turn.'
💡
Physiological specificity is required
Cool-down marks are lost almost every time because students use vague language. The mark scheme requires specific physiological effects. Use the table to learn exactly which phrases score.
| What a student might write | Does it score? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| "Prevent injury" | ✗ Does not score | Injury prevention = warm-up benefit, not cool-down. |
| "Relax muscles" | ✗ Does not score | Too vague — 'relax' is not a specific physiological effect. |
| "Cool down" | ✗ Does not score | This restates the question — not an effect. |
| "Reduce heart rate" | ✗ Does not score | Too vague — the mark scheme requires 'help heart rate return to normal'. |
| "Help heart rate return to normal" | ✓ Scores | Specific physiological language — acceptable. |
| "Help breathing return to normal" | ✓ Scores | Specific physiological language — acceptable. |
| "Prevent build-up of lactic acid" | ✓ Scores | Exact phrase — always accepted. |
| "Prevent muscle soreness" | ✓ Scores | Specific physiological effect — acceptable. |
| "Reduce core temperature" | ✓ Scores | Specific physiological language — acceptable. |
| "Prevent blood pooling in the veins" | ✓ Scores | Exact phrase — always accepted. |
| "Mental preparation for the next session" | ✓ Scores | Psychological effect — acceptable. |
✏️ Question Bank — Test Yourself
10 questions testing everything covered in the question bank · answer all, then Submit
Which of these correctly defines isolation (2 marks — both ingredients present)?
DefineWhich of these scores 1 mark for 'give one reason why stamina is important'?
Give two reasonsWhich answer scores 1 mark for 'give one way to improve coordination'?
Give two ways"Shoulder rolls" as a complete answer to "describe one exercise to warm up the shoulders" scores how many marks?
Describe an exerciseWhich category is phrasing in?
MCQWhich of these scores 1 mark for 'give one reason why hydration is important'?
Give two reasonsMovement memory is classified as which type of skill?
MCQ — category trap"When two or more dancers perform the same phrase starting at different times" defines which term?
DefineWhich answer scores 1 mark for 'give one way to improve musicality'?
Give two waysWhich of these scores as a reason for cooling down?
Give two reasons — cool-down📸Screenshot your score and paste into your ePortfolio.