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The Performance component is the Internal Assessment (IA) of the IB Dance syllabus. In this post, we’ll break down the assessment and share practical tips to help you succeed.
IB Dance Performance
- At SL, the Performance component accounts for 40% of the final grade. At HL, it also accounts for 40%.
- SL students will dedicate around 60 hours to this component during the course, while HL students should expect to spend about 90 hours.
- Students will prepare and perform one or two dances at SL and two or three at HL, with at least one solo or duet required for all students.
- Students must ensure that at least half of their performance time is spent on solo or duet work.
- These dances can be in any style or tradition but must be choreographed by someone other than the student (e.g., a teacher, guest choreographer, or from standard repertoire).
The Performance
For the IB Dance Performance component, students must prepare and present dances that demonstrate their range of technical skill and expressive ability. Students choose their dances in consultation with their teacher, ensuring the pieces suit their skill level and showcase different styles. Importantly, all dances must be choreographed by someone other than the student – such as the teacher or a guest choreographer – and cannot be original choreography by the student.
Performances must be filmed in open studio settings under working lights (not theatrical lighting). Students wear regular practice clothes unless costume is an essential component of the work. When dancing in a group, the student being assessed must be clearly visible and wear a contrasting top.
Additionally, each student must submit short written programme notes for each dance, which include:
- Title of the dance Name of the choreographer (e.g., teacher, guest artist, or standard repertoire).
- Any collaborators (music, set, etc.).
- A short paragraph on the intention of the dance and your interpretation.
- Any other relevant context (e.g., why you chose this piece).
- These notes are part of the assessment and must reflect independent thinking. Even if multiple students perform the same dance, each must write their own programme notes.
Tips on how to succeed
- Choose wisely. Select dances that show off your strengths and allow you to explore different expressive styles. Make sure at least one dance challenges you and highlights your growth over the course, but remember to be realistic – don't choose a dance that is far beyond your capabilities.
- Practice with a camera. This is especially important if you're camera-shy. It will ensure that when you record your final submission, you will be fully comfortable and be able to deliver your best performance. Recording your performances will also allow you to identify the areas that need improvement.
- Know your role. Make sure you understand the choreographer’s intent. What story, emotion, or idea are you communicating? Let that intention guide your performance choices and interpretation.
- Prioritise control. It’s not just about fancy moves – markers look for control and alignment. Clean execution, even in subtle moments, often makes a stronger impression than overly ambitious choreography that lacks polish.
- Don’t underestimate the programme notes. These are not just formalities – they show how well you understand and engage with the piece. Use clear language, be specific, and show reflection in how you approached the dance.
- Film when you're ready. You can film any time before the deadline. Do several takes if needed, and submit the one that truly reflects your best performance.
- Be synchronised in your duet. While a solo performance focuses solely on showcasing your individual skills and expression, a duet is a shared experience. It's essential to ensure that your movements are synchronised, cohesive, and complement your partner's. Remember, you're not performing in isolation – the duet a unified whole. Your connection, timing, and mutual awareness are just as important as your individual execution.
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify.
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