HSC Dance case studies
HSC Dance · Put your knowledge to work in context.
HSC Dance is a Stage 6 Creative Arts course within the Higher School Certificate, the senior secondary credential in New South Wales. The syllabus, assessment and school standards for the HSC are set by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), which describes the HSC as a world-class credential that helps young adults on the path to work, training and further education. The HSC Dance case studies are 5 cases and about 2,290 words.
1The Overloaded Solo: Rehearsal Time vs. Safe Technique
A Year 12 student has chosen a 3-minute solo for the HSC Performance core. Her teacher notes two problems: in the final 40 seconds she visibly loses turnout control, and her left ankle has been sore after every rehearsal for two weeks.
479 words, about 2 min2Composition: The Motif That Won't Develop
A student is composing a 3-minute work for the HSC Composition elective on the concept 'Confinement and Release'. Her 8-count movement motif is strong: a bound, low-level phrase with clenched hands and restricted ribcage.
420 words, about 2 min3Appreciation: Whose Meaning Counts?
A student is analysing a 2019 contemporary work for the HSC Appreciation section. In an interview, the choreographer says the work is about 'the noise of social media'.
477 words, about 2 min4Performance: The Safe Choice vs. the Ambitious Choice
Two weeks before the HSC Performance marking, a student must choose between two solos. Solo A is technically secure: she has performed it 20 times, it suits her lyrical strength, and her teacher rates it a reliable 'well-developed'.
466 words, about 2 min5Composition: The Group That Won't Commit
Three students are collaborating on a 4-minute group composition. One dancer, Priya, has strong ideas and dominates; the second, Tom, contributes movement but never defends it and withdraws when challenged; the third, Alex, is disengaged and misses one rehearsal in three.
448 words, about 2 min