Assessments

The ADV assessments program is different!

ADV teachers, parents and students love our holistic assessment process.

The Options System

ADV created the option system to give teachers, students and parents, a choice in the style of assessment process they prefer:

• Option 1 – ADV syllabus work and students receive a report and grade
• Option 2 – ADV syllabus work and students receive a report

The ADV way of assessing is designed to encourage students to strive for excellence within their own level of ability and to focus on the concept of growth and overall development, rather than comparing one student with another. Students are assessed against learning outcomes and performance criteria within the syllabus. Developmental assessments provide a broader and fairer perspective on student growth.

The syllabus encourages parents to participate in the dance assessment process of their children. Teachers are advised to consult with parents with regard to the Option system thereby taking into account the individual physical, emotional and cognitive development of the student.

From feedback of all dancers, teachers and parents involved with ADV over the years, we feel pride in reassuring them that dance is for the child’s own enjoyment, future dance appreciation.

•  If children are interested, encourage them to dance. However, if the child is not willing to dance, do not force them.
• Encourage dance students to see live professional dance performances as often as possible.
• Teach children that a good attitude, hard work and effort throughout the year is as important as “winning” so that the results of each assessment or performance is accepted without undue disappointment.
• Encourage children to always participate according to the rules of the school and the assessment program.
• Focus upon the child’s efforts and performance rather than the overall outcome of the assessment. This assists children in setting realistic goals related to their ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
• Never ridicule a child for making a mistake or not reaching an expectation in an assessment.
• Remember, children are involved in dance for their enjoyment, not yours.
• Remember, children learn best from example. Applaud good performances by all of the performers.
• If you disagree with an assessor, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than question the judgment in public.
• Support all efforts to remove bullying,  verbal and physical abuse from dance activities.