Dance Technique I
Recommended Prerequisite: None
Grades Offered: 9 - 12
Credit: 1/2 - 1
SDE Course Code: 3525
MNPS Course Code: PAR2120
Course Description
The initial techniques and theoretical concepts of modern and jazz dance are explored. The study includes proper body alignment, and the mechanics of breathing and phrasing.
Verbal and movement vocabulary are also analyzed.
Course of Study
· Identify and demonstrate movement elements
o Demonstrate clarity in performing technical skills
o Perform basic movement combinations to music in selected meters and styles
o Demonstrate improvement in performing movement combinations
o Identify the basic elements of modern dance and jazz dance from a visual presentation
· Understand choreographic principles
o Explore movements of modern dance and jazz dance through improvisation
o Create movement studies using the elements of modern dance and jazz dance
o Evaluate movement based on choreographic structures and principles of jazz dance and modern dance
· Creativity and Communication
o Identify the idea, thought, and/or feeling in a modern dance and/or jazz dance study
o Demonstrate how various senses change perception and communication
o Identify projection in modern dance movement and jazz dance movement
· Criticism and Analysis
o Solve basic movement problems
o Interpret modern dance and jazz dance choreography thematically
o Recognize aesthetic choices in choreography
o Discuss skills learned in modern dance and jazz dance
· Cultural/Historical Contexts
o Discuss the differences in modern dance/jazz dance expression throughout the world
o Discuss expressive body movements that occur in the human experience
o Discuss dance works in theatrical and contemporary forms
o Discuss dance in the media
o Discuss dances from other cultures
· Health
o Identify healthful living choices
o Identify images of the body in various historical periods
o Identify basic principles of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
Reading: In addition to reading teacher handouts, students are expected to read from a variety of sources including articles and biographies on history, terminology, injury prevention, and basic anatomy. Students are expected to gain literal understanding of readings and also to interpret, analyze, and evaluate information from the readings.
Writing: Students are expected to apply correct modern dance/jazz dance terminology in written and oral communication. Suggested written assignments include journals, critiques, document‑based questions, and dance notation.
Standards
TN State Department of Education Standards
http://www.state.tn.us/education/ci/cistandards2001/music/cifadance68.htm
Textbook
No MNPS purchased textbook
Recommended and/or Required Resources
Jazz Dance – Marshall and Jean Stearns
Basic Concepts in Modern Dance – Gay Cheney
Modern Dance – Esther E. Pease
Modern Dance Terminology – Paul Love
Dance Film and Video Guide – Deirdre Towers
Live performances of modern dance and jazz dance
Professional dancers