Question:
How high on the toes should you dance in this step?  Some teachers emphasise that it is fairly low on the balls of the feet, but some RSCDS video footage shows dancers quite high on their toes.

Answer:
All steps should be danced on the ball of the foot (Manual para 5.3).  Teachers often say "on your toes" in an effort to get dancers off their heels and for most of us this will only achieve getting on to the ball of the foot.  Those with Highland or ballet training will dance higher

The forward thrust from the rear foot and supporting leg on beat 1is both easier, and more effective, from a low position, but some dancers do close up in 3^rd position in a slightly higher position.