Division:  Middle School

Department: Fine and Performing Arts:  Dance

Course Title/Code:  Speaking in Movement   ARTDAEXP 

Course Description:  This class approaches dance as a means of self-expression and allows students to explore their own creativity through movement. Basic movement concepts such as use of space, time, and weight are explored. 

Goals

This class is designed to introduce students to modern dance as a creative art form. Students learn to create movement and basic principles of choreography. They will explore the concepts of space, time, and intent in movement.

Skills

• Learn and understand locomotor movement
• Learn and understand gestural movement
• Learn to work in groups to create movement
• Learn the basic shapes that the body can create in space
• Learn the qualities the dynamics which can be applied to movement through space
• Learn a sense of respect for the space around others
• Learn how to watch a dance performance
• Learn how dance has existed in Western European art through history and how this differs from other cultures

Activities        

• Students learn movement combinations created by the teacher to illustrate the use of space, time, and movement initiation
• Students learn and practice locomotor movements (such as skipping, running, leaping, etc.)
• Students learn to create gestural movement
• Students are given composition exercises which are designed to stimulate creativity and problem solving skills
• Students perform their work for each other in class

Assessment

• Students receive a daily grade based on class participation
• Students are graded on their composition work; points are assigned for components of the composition
• Students will have a final practical test on the combinations which have been taught by the instructor during the trimester