Course Profile   Dance, Grade 9 open, Catholic

 

Unit 1

 

Course Profiles are professional development materials designed to help teachers implement the new Grade 9 secondary school curriculum.  These materials were created by writing partnerships of school boards and subject associations.  The development of these resources was funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training.  This document reflects the views of the developers and not necessarily those of the Ministry.  Permission is given to reproduce these materials for any purpose except profit.  Teachers are also encouraged to amend, revise, edit, cut, paste, and otherwise adapt this material for educational purposes.

 

 

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Acknowledgments

 

Lead Board

 

Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board in collaboration with the Upper Canada District School Board and their coordinating partners.

 

Course Profile Writing Team

 

Ursula Nahatchewitz, Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board - Lead Writer

            Kelly Child, District School Board of Niagara

Laurel Brown, Waterloo District School Board

Jane Deluzio, Toronto District School Board

Colleen Friedman, Dance Educator and Choreographer

Laura Libralato, Toronto Catholic District School Board

Carolle Mageau, Rainbow  District School Board

Carmelina Martin, Dufferin-Peel District School Board

Susan McNaughton, Toronto District School Board

 

Brenda Dillon

            Karen Hypes

            Debra Kapp

            Janice Stone

            Betty Telford

            Earl Haig Secondary School

            Etobicoke School of the Arts

            Rosedale Heights

            Unionville School for the Arts

 

Support and Consultation

            Gerry Woodman, Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board

Catholic Curriculum Cooperative for Central Ontario

Institute for Catholic Education

 

 

Unit #1: Elements of Dance

 

Activity 1½Activity 2½Activity 3½Activity 4½Activity 5½Activity 6½Activity 7½Activity 8

 

Time: 20 hours

 

Unit Developers:

      Mageau, Carolle, Rainbow District School Board

      Nahatchewitz, Ursula, Dufferin-Peel Roman Catholic Separate School Board

 

Development Date: April 1, 1999

 

Unit Description

 

Students will explore and demonstrate their understanding of the basic elements of dance – space, shape, time and energy – and will combine them into sequences.  Students will be provided with opportunities to explore, use and integrate our shared Catholic faith traditions in the creation and critical analysis of their work and that of others.  Students will improvise with these elements. They will demonstrate knowledge of appropriate conventions as they relate to the classroom, as well as to being performers and audience members. Throughout the unit, students must apply safety principles in the dance environment and in the execution of these movement skills.  They will observe and identify a broad spectrum of dance (eg. ritual, religious, social, work-related, theatrical, etc.) as well as begin to reflect on their own work and the work of others.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:      CGE1a,c,d,f,g,h,i, 2a,b,c,e, 3a,b,c,d,e,f, 4a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h, 5a,b,c,d,e,f,g, 7a,b,c,e,f,g,j.

 

Strand(s) & Expectations

 

Strand(s):    Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:     TTV.01X, TCV.01X, 02X, 03X, 04X, 05X, TAV.01X, 02X, 03X

Specific Expectations:     TT1.02X, 03X, 04X, TT2.01X, 05X, TT3.01X, TC1.01X, 02X, 03X, 04X, TC2.01X, 03X, TC3.01X, 02X, TA1.01X, TA3.02X

 

Activity Titles (Time + Sequence)

 

Activity 1

Defining Dance

 75 minutes

Activity 2

Foundation Element – Shape

150 minutes

Activity 3

Foundation Element – Space

150 minutes

Activity 4

Foundation Element – Time

150 minutes

Activity 5

Foundation Element – Energy

150 minutes

Activity 6

Stimuli for Improvisation

150 minutes

Activity 7

Composition with the Fundamental Elements

300 minutes

Activity 8

Reflection & Self-Evaluation of Compositional Work

 75 minutes

 

Unit Planning Notes

 

General: Teachers may wish to illustrate the fundamental elements with appropriate video clips from a variety of sources and to collect book resources for all activities.  Teachers may wish to emphasize a thematic context for choreography, e.g. the human condition through social justice issues.  Suggested sources for this work are: the Gospels (i.e. parables), current and historical events/people, e.g. holocaust/Cambodia, Ghandi,  Martin Luther King.  It is within these powerful contexts that the Catholic Expectations may be introduced, developed and presented.  The teacher may decide on a theme based on the liturgical calendar, such as Easter, Christmas, etc. 

Activity 1:   Obtain visual examples of dance, order videos and book video player.

Activity 2:   Collect and prepare a variety of stimuli, lists of action words, moving image cues and concrete objects.

Activity 3:   Prepare cards of action words/directions and obtain exploration tools, eg. hula hoops, scarves, elastics, fabric.

Activity 4:   Obtain a variety of sound-making instruments and prepare visual reference material of dance/music terminology.

Activity 5:   Prepare energy scale, cards of energy action words (Laban) and obtain set of coloured markers.

Activity 6:   Collect and prepare two single visual stimuli; three groupings of visual stimuli, four to five pictures, posters, books, four to five examples of tactile stimuli, four to five examples of auditory stimuli and four to five examples of olfactory stimuli.

Activity 7:   Prepare assignment, obtain blank videos, and book video player.

Activity 8:   Order videos and book video player, prepare a class set and the self-evaluation rubric.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

Successful completion of the grade eight program.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

Diagnostic assessment should occur at the beginning of this first unit so that the teacher can adapt the teaching/learning strategies to the entry level of the students. Formative assessment in this unit consists primarily of teacher observation with the aid of checklists/rubrics for task completion, creative problem-solving, understanding of dance terminology, technique, composition, classroom protocol, safe practices etc. As well, the teacher will assess writing contained in reflective journals. A quiz may take place in Activity 5.  Throughout the unit the students will engage in self-assessment as well as receive feedback from their peers.  Evaluation of dance pieces and the creative process will take place at the end of the unit according to the rubrics provided to the students in advance.  Students will engage in self-evaluation at the end of the unit using the same rubrics.     

 

Assessment/evaluation strategies suggested in this unit:

 

1.   Checklists may be devised for the diagnostic assessments which should take place at the beginning of the unit.

2.   Checklists for assessment through teacher observation of technique, classroom protocol, composition, safe practices etc. are suggested in Activities 2 – 6. 

3.   Rubrics are provided for evaluation through teacher observation of the compositions at the end of the unit and of the process for creating the compositions.  Students should self-evaluate their creative process and their compositions using these same rubrics.

4.   Understanding of concepts is assessed through a written assignment in Activity 4. 

5.   Understanding of concepts is assessed through entries made in a reflective journal in Activities 1, 5 and 6.

6.   A quiz is suggested in Activity 5 in order to assess understanding of knowledge and terminology.

 

Resources

 

1.   Blom, Lynne Anne and Chaplin, L. Tarin.  The Moment of Movement – Dance Improvisation.  (Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988).

2.   Cheney, Gay.  Basic Concepts in Modern Dance – A Creative Approach.  (Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton Book Company, Publishers, 1989).

3.   Dance, Film and Video Guide.   (New Jersey:  Princeton Book Co., 1991).

4.   Dance Ontario Directory–1999.  (Toronto:  Dance Ontario, 1999).

5.   Edwards, Harvey.  The Art of Dance.  (Boston, Toronto:  Little, Brown/A Bulfinch Press Book, 1989).

6.   Eisner, Elliot W.   The Art of Educational Evaluation – A Personal View.  (London and Philadelphia: The Palmer Press, 1985).

7.   Eisner, Elliott W.  The Enlightened Eye–Qualitative Inquiry and the Enhancement of Educational Practice.  (New York: Macmillan Publishing Company, 1991).

8.   Ewing, William A.  Breaking Bounds: The Dance Photography of Lois Greenfield.  (San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 1992).

9.   Franklin, Eric.  Dance Imagery for Technique and Performance.  (Windsor:  Human Kinetics, 1996).

10. Gardner, Howard.  Frames of Mind–The Theory of Multiple Intelligences.  (U.S.A.:  Basic Books, 1983).

11. Gordon, Suzanne. Off Balance: The Real World of Ballet. New York: McGraw-Hill Publishing Co., 1984. ISBN 0070237700.

12. Harris, Lesley E.  “Copyright and Dance Editorial”.  Dance in Canada, (Spring, 1989). 

13. Humphreys, Doris.  The Art of Making Dances. (New York: Grove Press Inc., 1959).

14. Kurath, Gertrude Prokosch.  Dance and Song Rituals of Six Nations Reserve,   (Ontario:  National Museum of Canada Bulletin 220, Ottawa, 1968).

15. Morgan, Barbara.  Martha Graham: Sixteen Dances in Photographs.  (New York:  Morgan & Morgan Inc., 1980).

16. Penrod, James and Plastino, Janice Gudde.  The Dancer Prepares:  Modern Dance For Beginners. (Toronto:  Mayfield Publishing Company, 1998).  

17. Schrader, Constance A.   A Sense of Dance: Exploring Your Movement Potential.  (Windsor:  Human Kinetics, 1996).

18. Smith, Jacqueline M.  Dance Composition & Practical Guide for Teachers.  (Princeton:  Princeton Book Company, 1987).

19. The Ethnocultural Directory of Canada. Montreal:  Monchanin Cross-Cultural Centre, 1990.

20. The Metropolitan Toronto School Board.  DanceMetro: A Curriculum Handbook Grade 7 – OAC. (Toronto:  The Metropolitan Toronto School Board, 1994).

21. Videos:  Dancing, 1993.  Programs 1 – 8:  ISBN 0-7800-13409.

22. Von Tiedemann, Cylla.  The Dance Photography of Cylla Von Tiedemann.  (Ottawa:  National Arts Centre, Toronto:  McClelland & Stewart, 1991).

 

Note: TheatreBooks and  Dance Collection Danse, located in Toronto, are wonderful sources of dance resources and information.  Both have websites.

 

Catholic Resources:

 

23. This Moment of Promise, Ontario Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1989.

24. Catholic Bible, New Revised Standard Version.

25. Groome, Thomas.  Educating for Life: A Spiritual Vision For Every Teacher and Parent.  (Thomas More Press, 1998.)

26. Cameron, Julia & Bryan, Mark.  The Artists Way: A Spiritual Guide to Creativity.  (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1992.)

27. Cameron, Julia & Bryan, Mark.  Prayers for a Creatively Spiritual Life.  (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1992.)

28. Curriculum Matters: A Resource for Catholic Educators, Institute for Catholic Education, 1996.

29. Blueprints, Catholic Curriculum Cooperative, 1998.

30. Trafford, Larry.  Educating The Soul: Writing Curriculum For Catholic Secondary Schools.  (Toronto:  Toronto Catholic District School Board, 1998.)

31. Verbel, D.  Dance and Prayer: Meaningful Methods With High School Students and With Adults, 1986.

32. Winton-Henry, H.  Dancing God’s People into the Year 2000: A Critical Look At Dance Performance In The Church, 1997.

33. Tataryn, M.  Praying With Icons.  Ottawa: Novalis, 1988.

34. USCC (United States Catholic Conference) Environment and Art in Catholic Worship, 1978.

35. National Bulletin on Liturgy #87, “Liturgical Movement” by National Gallery Office, Ottawa.

 

Appendices

Appendix A:   Movement Activities & Exercises

Appendix B:   Rubric – Evaluation of Composition

Appendix F:    Rubric – Evaluation of Creative Process Within a Group

 

 

Activity #1: Defining Dance

 

Time:  75 minutes

 

Description

 

In this introductory lesson students explore, define and expand their understanding of dance.  By observing a variety of examples, students will begin to perceive the role dance plays in their lives and in the world around them.  Students will write and develop personal expectations and goals for themselves within the dance course.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            OCE 2c, 3b,c, 4g.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis  

Overall Expectations:     TTV.01X, TCV. 05X, TAV. 01X

Specific Expectations:     TT2.01X*, 05X, TC3.01X, TA1.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher can expect that students will need to learn what is appropriate as dance attire for class.

     Teacher makes accommodations for exceptional students.

     Teacher prepares visual examples of dance (eg. pictures, magazines, books, videos, etc.), orders and cues videos, obtains course textbooks, materials, TV, VCR, computer with internet access  and appropriate cords, plugs, etc.  Ensure that choices are inclusive in nature without bias.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

     This unit is designed for students from a variety of differing dance backgrounds.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Introduction & Discussion

Teacher creates an atmosphere utilizing dance visuals, ie. video clips, pictures, books, etc.

Students write a short definition of what they think dance is. Time is limited to one minute.

Students share aloud.  Teacher facilitates discussion and shows the wide range of possible definitions.

Students discuss the following points: What is your first memory of dancing? Why do you dance? Where and when do you dance? Why do people dance? What are some of the issues, concerns, etc. concerning dance? How do you and others feel about the issues, concerns, etc.?  What evidence in the Bible refer specifically to dance?  What is our calling?

Teacher introduces visual examples highlighting the diversity of dance:  religious, historical, cultural, media, forms and styles, and discusses as necessary.

Students reflect and write their expectations of the course and for themselves with a focus on their own Catholic faith journey.  Teachers may wish to have the students develop a reflective journal which will be used at appropriate times throughout the course.

 

II    Getting Acquainted

Name/Movement Group Building Game (Appendix A).

Teacher presents students with material to explore, (eg. Lord’s Prayer, poetry “Lord of the Dance”, passage from Scripture, etc.).

Students interpret and explore passage using gestures and movements.

 

III  Teacher Talk

Teacher explains traditional practices surrounding dance class attire, personal hygiene, safety factors and daily preparation and warm-up. Teacher explains structure of course and evaluation criteria.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.   Students’ personal reflective journal writing is assessed for completion and information provided, i.e. Catholic faith journey; integration of faith and life; respect for the rights, responsibilities and contributions of self and others (OCE 2c, 3b,c, 4g). 

2.   Teacher assesses students’ background knowledge through observation to assist in developing appropriate level for the technique contained in the activities.

 

Resources

 

#5, 8, 13, 14, 15, 19,  20, 21, 22 – 34.

 

Accommodations

 

1.   Teachers will obtain information concerning students registered in the dance course in order to make appropriate student accommodations.  It is suggested that teachers elicit the assistance of the support and resource personnel in the Special Education and Students Resources Departments.

2.   In the case of experienced, talented, or highly motivated students, the teacher may need to adjust teaching  strategies. For example, students’s assignments may be modified to become more challenging, students may play a leadership role in class, etc.

 

Appendices

      Appendix A: Movement Activities & Exercises

 

Activity #2:  Foundation Element – Shape

 

Time: 150 minutes

 

Description

 

A variety of visual and auditory stimuli will be presented to explore and expand students’ creative thinking skills and physical movement vocabulary.  Students will apply problem-solving and cooperative learning skills to create a short dance study based on the element of shape.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV01X, TCV.01X, 02X, TAV.02X, 03X

Specific Expectations:      TT1.02X, 03X, 04X*, TT2.01X, 05X, TC1.01X*, 03X*, 04X*, TC2.01X*, TC3.01X, TA1.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher collects and prepares a variety of visual stimuli (e.g. pictures, statues, objects, etc.).

     Teacher prepares an extensive list of: objects with a variety of different shapes (e.g. square, octagon, stapler, chair, etc.); action words (eg. twist, shake, ooze, etc.); moving image cues (e.g. caught in a wind storm, etc.); concrete objects that move, (e.g. eggbeater, dragon, train, etc.).

     Teacher may prepare assessment logs, journals, anecdotal forms, checklists.

     Teacher may begin videotaping students’ creative process and progress and will need to make arrangements and preparations for a TV/VCR, blank video cassette, extension cords, etc.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

Activity 1.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Name Review

Suzie Picks Harry Name Game (Appendix A).

 

II    The Shape and Size of Things

Students observe a number of visual stimuli (pictures, objects, etc.) that depict the human body in a wide range of shapes. 

Teacher directs the focus to the body parts involved in creating the shapes, the shapes and the sizes of the shapes themselves. 

Students verbalize their observations and reconstruct the shape.

Teacher introduces dance vocabulary to identify aspects of shapes observed, i.e. flexed and/or pointed feet, arms in second position, turn-out and parallel positions, etc. 

Teacher leads students through a guided movement exploration using verbal cues of a variety of shapes (i.e., square, circle, rectangle, mountain, cloud, teacup, pencil, etc. )

Students  move through the explorations independently, with a partner, in a group and with the whole class. 

Teacher repeats the guided exploration adding directions to change the size of each shape.

Students  move through the explorations independently, with a partner, in a group and as a whole class.

Teacher assigns a creative movement exploration in small groups:

     students to create three group pictures using three different shapes and three different sizes within each picture

     students create a movement phrase linking the three different shapes.

Students share their work with the class.

Teacher leads sharing and observational session.

 

III  Moving Shapes

Partnered Stretches Exercise (Appendix A).

Teacher introduces the concept of moving shapes.

Teacher leads students through a guided movement exploration using verbal cues of a variety of action words, i.e. twist, shake, swing, explode, melt, ooze, collapse, freeze,  sway, suspend, etc.

Students  move through the explorations independently, with a partner, in a group and as a class.

Teacher repeats the guided exploration adding two or more actions to be explored simultaneously.  Teacher guides students to explore moving shapes following verbal image cues (eg. your moving shape is caught in a windstorm; your moving shape is out in the freezing cold and the temperature is dropping; your moving shape is being dropped into a large vat of caramel, etc.)

Students  move through the explorations independently.

Teacher calls out a number by which students quickly group.

Teacher verbally cues a concrete moving shape for the group to form, i.e. two students form an eggbeater, four students form a dragon, etc.

Students create and  memorize the shape, location in space and group members.

Teacher calls out a different number to cue students to rapidly change to a different group.

Students quickly move into a new grouping.

Teacher verbally cues a different moving shape for the new group to form.

Students quickly create and memorize the shape, location in space and group members.

Teacher randomly calls out three additional numbers and  moving shapes.

Students quickly create and memorize each new shape with its new location and new groups members.

Teacher randomly calls out the numbers previously cued without naming the moving shape giving sufficient time to recreate.

Students must quickly recall the number, the location in space, the group members and the moving shape allocated to the number called.

 

IV  Dance Study #1 – Shape

Teacher assigns a creative movement exploration of appropriate length for small groups with a set time.  (e.g. Develop a dance study by creating three different moving shapes.  Shapes must be organized into a sequence.  Transitions between each moving shape must be seamless.)

Students create the dance study.

Students share their work with the class.

Teacher introduces fundamental roles of students as presenters and audience members.

Teacher leads sharing and observational session.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.   Teacher assesses students’ progress through observation with a checklist itemizing the completion of the problem set (e.g. three different moving shapes, elements of improvisation, improvisation with stimuli, seamless and safe transitions).

2.   Teacher may wish to have the students self-assess using the same checklist.

 

Resources

#1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22 – 34.

 

Appendices

     Appendix A: Movement Activities & Exercises

 

 

Activity #3:  Foundation Element – Space

 

Time:  150 minutes

 

Description

 

A variety of visual and auditory stimuli will be presented to explore and expand students’ creative thinking skills and physical movement vocabulary.  Students will apply problem-solving and cooperative learning skills to create a dance study based on the element of space.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TCV.01X, 02X, 05X, TAV.01X, 03X

Specific Expectations:      TT1.02X, 03X, 04X*, TT2.01X, 05X, TC1.01X*, 02X*, 03X*, 04X, TC2.01X*, TC3.01X, TA1.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher prepares two sets of individual cards: one set listing various action words and one set listing various directions.

     Teacher gathers and provides a variety of exploration tools, e.g. hula hoops, scarves, wide elastics, fabric, etc.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

     Activities 1 and 2.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Review of previous elements

Sculpture/Intelligent Clay Exercise (Appendix A).

 

II    Introduction to Concept of Space

Space Invader Exercise (Appendix A)

 

III  Level

Teacher leads students through a guided movement exploration using verbal cues of actions linked to movement directions i.e. over, under, through, across, open out, toward, away, rise, sink, side, diagonal, around, forward, backward.  Students do actions and follow directions.

Teacher suggests a variety of speeds of action and directions. 

Teacher repeats actions with directions changing speed to fast forward. 

Teacher varies speed randomly, ending at a moderate pace.

Teacher verbally continues actions linked to directions and asks students to change their level to low.

Teacher asks students to change their level to middle and then to high.

Teacher sets a movement study.  (Example: Individually create a short movement phrase.  Include all three levels in the phrase and randomly choose two actions and two directions.)

Students create the movement study and share their work with the class.

Teacher leads part of class sharing at a time and conducts observational session.

IV  Floor Patterns

Teacher introduces the concept of floor patterns by guiding a brainstorming session on straight and curved line shapes.

Students brainstorm and draw straight-line shapes, letters and numbers, etc. on paper (e.g. straight line, square, triangle, rectangle, octagon, pentagon, zig zag, numbers 1, 4, 7, etc., letters A, E, I, H, K, L, M, N, T, V, W, X, Y Z).

Students brainstorm and draw curved-line shapes, letters and numbers, etc. on paper, (e.g. curved line, circle, figure eight, spiral in and out, heart, etc., numbers 0, 2, 3, 6, 8, letters C, O, S).

Students brainstorm and draw shapes with combinations of straight and curved lines, (e.g. heart, half-moon, cylinder, cone, ice cream cone, numbers 2,5,9, letters B, D, G, J, P, Q, R, U, etc.)   

Teacher hands out a blank sheet of paper and instructs student to visualize and design a floor pattern.  Each design is to have a beginning and ending point and to include one straight-line shape, one curved-line shape and one combination shape.   Each shape is to be connected to the other.

Students independently design a floor pattern and physically move through their design.

Students link their design with a partner’s design and move through the combined patterns.

Teacher collects designs for assessment, display and/or visual arts activity, etc.

 

V   Introduction to Concept of Focus

Face-to-Face Mirroring Exercise ( Appendix A). 

 

VI  Focus

Teacher leads guided movement exploration developing the concept of focus, i.e. towards, away from, direct and indirect.

Teacher gives and repeats each of the following oral cues 3–4 times and students move accordingly:

– focus on an object in the classroom and move directly towards the object;

– focus on an object in the classroom and move directly away from the object;

– focus on an object in the classroom and move indirectly towards the object;      

– focus on an object in the classroom and move indirectly away from the object.

 

VII Focus/Pattern Exercise

Teacher explains the “Silent Partner” Exercise (Appendix A).

 

VIII Dance Study #2 – Space

Teacher assigns a creative problem-solving assignment, e.g. create a time/movement phrase.  This dance study must incorporate a minimum of three different spatial elements, i.e. levels, direction, patterns (floor) and focus.

Teacher divides class into groups and assigns each group a different exploration tool, e.g. multi-coloured scarves, wide elastics, fabric or rubber bands, hula hoops.

Students explore movement within their groups and create the dance study.

Teacher videotapes students’ movement phrase while students share their work with the class.

Teacher leads part of class sharing at a time and conducts a guided observational session.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.  Teacher assesses students’ progress (technique, composition and class protocol) through teacher observation.  Checklists for each of these areas which can be used on an on-going basis would be useful.  Videotaping for documentation may be helpful where appropriate (e.g. Dance Study #2) if the students are comfortable with it.

 

Resources

#1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22 – 34.

 

Appendices

Appendix A: Movement Activities & Exercises

 

 

Activity #4:  Foundation Element  – Time

 

Time: 150 minutes

 

Description

 

A variety of visual and auditory stimuli will be presented to explore and expand students’ creative thinking skills and physical movement vocabulary.  Students will apply problem-solving and cooperative learning skills to create a dance study based on the element of time.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TCV.01X, 02X, 05X, TAV.01X, 03X

Specific Expectations:      TT1.02X, 03X, 04X*, TT2.01X, 05X, TC1.01X*, 02X*, 03X*, 04X, TC2.01X*, TC3.01X, TA1.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher collects an array of different sound-making tools (e.g. whistle, tambourine, drum, voice, etc.).

     Teacher may prepare visual reference material (eg. handouts, overheads, wall-mounts, etc.) of dance/music terminology.

     Teacher obtains music of different tempos (e.g. 3/4, 4/4 etc.).

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

     Activities 1, 2 and 3.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Rhythmic Explorations

Teacher directs students to lie on floor with eyes closed, and to find their pulse (e.g. wrist, neck, heart) and to use the other hand to tap out the rhythm of their pulse.

Teacher asks students to sit across from a partner on the floor and verbally cues students to do the following exercises.  Note:  Students should not stop between the exercises.

Students physically do the following and count aloud:

     slap thighs, clap hands, clap hands with partner, counting 1,2,3;

     slap thighs, hold, clap hands with partner counting 1,2,3;

     slap thighs, clap hands, hold counting 1,2,3.

Students repeats exercise without counting:

     clapping each other’s body on count 2, (without counting) and;

     clapping each other’s body on count 1, (without counting).

Teacher asks students to stand and scatter throughout the room.

Students clap out a 3/4 rhythm in unison e.g. 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3.

Teacher walks throughout  the space and in between students, clapping counter rhythms or using different sound-making tools (eg. tambourine, whistle, voice, to etc) to try to change the student’s rhythm.

Students discuss their ability to maintain the rhythm assigned in spite of the distractions.

Teacher assigns a 3/4 movement phrase e.g. step-hop-clap; hop-clap-stamp, etc.

Teacher verbally cues students to do the following exercises, not allowing students to stop between each.

     do movement phrase accenting the first beat

     do movement phrase accenting the third beat

     do movement phrase accenting the second beat

Teacher divides the class into two groups, placing each group at opposite ends of the room and verbally cues students to do the following exercises:

     one group to clap out a  3/4 rhythm, the other group to clap out a 4/4 rhythm.

     two groups of students move towards each other while teacher claps counter rhythms.

     two groups of students continue to clap out the rhythms assigned but move to a scatter formation

Teacher places students in groups of three and asks each group to create three silent actions to form a pattern which is repetitive. The groups are as far away from each other as possible.

     group 1 does  movement phrase accenting the second movement;

     group 2 does  movement phrase accenting the first movement;

     group 3 does  movement phrase accenting the third  movement;

     groups move towards each other towards the center of the room;

     all groups scatter and intermingle, maintaining their assigned accented movement.

 

II    Tempo Exploration

Teacher introduces dance and music terminology i.e. adagio, allegro, andante, presto, tempo

Teacher assigns a 3/4 movement phrase  i.e. counts 1–2 slide, count 3 hop; count 1–2 step, count 3 hop

Teacher establishes a beat and varies the tempo of the beat.

Students adjust movement phrase to various tempos.

Students discuss and answer the following question: How does tempo affect a  movement?

Teacher verbally cues students to do the following exercises:

     16 counts of small jumps with the accent down, i.e. into floor;

     16 counts of small jumps with the accent up, i.e. lift up;

     8 counts of small jumps with variations of the accents;

     8 counts of a leg and or arm movement with the accent in, i.e. closing;

     8 counts of leg and or arm movement with the accent out, i.e. exploding out;

     8 counts of leg and or arm movement with variations of the accents.

Teacher assigns increasingly complex and challenging body shapes and action-word variations, changing accent and timing of movement phrase (e.g. suspending movement, upper body only, etc.).

 

III  Let’s Talk And Write About It.

Students discuss and answer the following question: What do you need to physically do to accommodate the change of accents?

Students are asked to write the answers to the following question: What new dance/music terms are used to describe time, speed, very fast, very slow, soft, loud, quick and sharp?

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.   Teacher collects and assesses students’ written work utilizing a checklist of new dance terminology.

 

Resources

 

#1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22 – 34.

 

 

Activity #5:  Foundations Element – Energy or Dynamics

 

Time:  150 minutes

 

Description

 

A variety of visual and auditory stimuli will be presented to explore and expand students’ creative thinking and physical movement vocabulary.  Students will apply problem-solving and cooperative learning skills to create a dance study based on the element of energy or dynamics

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TCV.01X, 02X, .05X, TAV.01X, 03X,

Specific Expectations:      TT1.04X*, TT2.01X, 05X*, TC1.01X*, .03X*, TC2.01X, 03X, TAI.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher prepares a Laban energy chart on large bristol board with a set of coloured markers.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

Activities 1 through 4.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Exploring Dynamics Through a Physical Journey

This is an exercise in which the teacher does a voice over of an arduous physical journey.  The students physically interpret the journey. Example: rope bridge over a crevice, crawling through the jungle, shooting the rapids, fording a stream etc.

 

II    Dance Dynamics

Teacher provides a light to strong scale  to chart Laban energy action words (eg. punch, press, dab, glide, flick, float, slash, wring).

Students organize and categorize energy action words providing rationale for decisions.

Students then assign a colour to the scale of energy action words, selecting strong intensity colours for the strong action words, lighter intensity colours for the soft action words.

Teacher asks students which energy actions have been altered by time and space.

Teacher leads students through a guided movement exploration of energy action words.

Teacher divides class into groups. 

Each group selects and combines six energy action words. 

Students create the movement phrase which becomes each group’s template.

Teacher leads groups through a guided movement exploration verbally cuing and changing the dynamic quality: Repeat the movement phrase changing the painting of the phrase with a percussive quality,  i.e. percussive, sustained, vibratory, suspension, swing, collapse, punch, press, dab.

Teacher asks students to draw a floor pattern on paper including using two straight lines and a curved line.  The lines must be connected and indicate a beginning and an ending point.

Students must then choose three energy action words, i.e. punch, press, dab, glide, flick, float, slash, wring and designate a different energy action word to each section of the pattern drawn.

Students practise the movement phrases.

Teacher leads discussion on the qualities of movement and the changes of the intensity of the movement as the colour intensity changes.

Students colour each of the three lines of the pattern with a different colour for each line.

Students rehearse their movement phrase with the energy intensity associated with the colour they chose.

Students then choose the opposite colour for each of the three lines of the pattern and rehearse the same movement phrase changing the intensity associated with the colour.

 

III  Let’s Talk and Write About It.

Students discuss and make notes on the following questions:

What happened to the action when you gave it a colour?

What happened to the action when you did it with its opposite colour? Why?

How did the action change with the different colours and how did it feel? Why?

Which level of energy (colour) were you the most comfortable with? Why?

How did you feel when you did the same action to two different colours?

Extensions:        Students create a collage of patterns of colour.

                        Students to brainstorm energy action words and write a poem with them.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.  Teacher assesses students’ progress (technique, composition and class protocol) through teacher observation using the checklists already developed.  Videotaping for documentation may be helpful where appropriate (e.g. experiments with colour) if the students are comfortable with it.

2.  Teacher may chose to assess the students’ understanding of the elements of dance utilizing both a written quiz and a reflective journal entry to accommodate different learning styles.

 

Resources

 

#1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22 – 34.

 

Appendices

Appendix A: Movement Activities & Exercises

 

Activity # 6: Stimuli for Improvisation

 

Time: 150 minutes

 

Description

 

Students will be exposed to a variety of visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory stimuli as a source for the creative process.  Through guided exploration and improvisation, students will move spontaneously and create a link between the concrete and the abstract.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TCV.02X, 05X, TAV.01X, 03X,

Specific Expectations:      TT2.01X, 05X, TCI.03X*, .04X*, TAI.01X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher prepares the following: 2 single visual stimuli; 3 grouping visual stimuli; 4–5 pictures, posters, books; 4–5 tactile; 4–5 auditory; 4–5 olfactory.

     Lesson  requires an appropriate sound system.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

Activities 1 – 5.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Objects to Stimulate Creativity

Teacher introduces one visual stimulus (eg. statue, intricate pitcher, driftwood, rag doll, etc.) and directs student to silently walk around and without touching the stimulus, observe its features, i.e. lines, energy, dimension, colour.

Teacher asks students to independently interpret with their bodies, the features of three different objects observed, one at a time.  Each interpretation must move through a phrase of counts, e.g. 7, 8,11) so that the body is not static.

Students discuss the following questions:

How easy an/or difficult was it to create a movement phrase based on an inanimate object?

What made it easy and/or difficult for you?

 

II    Groupings

Teacher divides class into groupings that correspond with the number of grouped stimuli.

e.g.       Stimuli Group A: consists of three different toys = Group of three students

            Stimuli Group B: consists of four different hats = Group of four students

            Stimuli Group C: consists of five different sizes of bottles = Group of five students

Teacher asks each group to silently walk around and without touching the stimuli, to observe its features and each objects’ relationship to the other objects.

Teacher asks students to silently and physically interpret the features of the stimuli grouping observed followed by the relationship of each stimuli grouping.  Students must keep their interpretation moving.

Teacher repeats above guided exploration process introducing:

A:   pictures (eg. peoples’ faces, children playing, a cityscape, bouquet of flowers, etc.);

B:   tactile stimuli (eg. cheese grater, piece of fun fur, rubber ball, shaving brush, bag of cold spaghetti, bread dough, etc.);

C:   olfactory stimuli (eg. spices, empty bleach bottle, fresh branch of pine needles, perfume, crushed garlic, vinegar, etc.);

D.  auditory stimuli (eg. single sound effects – scream, glass breaking; nature sounds, – waves, birds, wind;  music – single instrument, horn, maraca, drum, Baroque chamber music, instrumental music from different cultures,  Rhapsody in Blue, Beethoven’s Fifth, etc.).

 

III  Reflective Thoughts

Students present, share and observe one another’s movement studies.

Students discuss questions and record reflections on the following questions:

Is music necessary to compose dance?  What is your rationale?

What restrictions and/or freedoms does each stimuli present?

Teacher discusses texture, rhythm, dynamics in music.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.   Teacher assesses students’ progress (technique, composition and class protocol) through teacher observation using checklists already developed.  Videotaping for documentation may be helpful where appropriate (e.g. the movement studies) if the students are comfortable with it.

2.   Teacher may chose to use the reflective journal entry to assess the students’ understanding of the theory.

 

Resources

 

#1, 2, 7, 9, 12, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22 – 34.

 

 

Activity #7: Composition with the Fundamental Elements

 

Time: 300 minutes

 

Description

 

Students will have the opportunity to integrate and demonstrate their understanding of the fundamental elements explored by creating a longer dance study. Students will be introduced to the concept of disciplined rehearsal practices, work attitudes and habits and the refinement of polishing of their movement for presentation.  Emphasis will be on the integration of movement, composition and presentation skills.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TTV.05X, TCV.01X, 02X, 03X, 04X, 05X, TAV.01X, 03X

Specific Expectations:      TT1.04X, TC1.01X*, 02X, 03X*, 04X*, TC2.03X*, TC3.01X*, 02X, TA3.02X

 

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher must prepare appropriate accompaniment (eg. sacred, secular, student created music, etc.)  for student exploration.

     Teacher may prepare assignment sheets as a student handout.

     Teacher prepares TV, VCR, blank video-cassette, charged batteries, cords, lighting levels, etc.

     Teacher may prepare assessment journals, logs, checklists, etc.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

A kinesthetic, intellectual and creative understanding of the skills and concepts developed in previous activities 1–6.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Setting The Parameters.

Teacher introduces the idea that the dance class is a community, as are the school, the town, and the Catholic faith community and explains that the skills developed are to ensure harmony and productivity in all types of communities.  The teacher stresses the individual’s role in taking responsibility for their own actions as their actions impact others.

Teacher divides class into three or more groups and discusses the assignment and the evaluation rubric (Appendix B), e.g. create a short dance work of 1–2 minutes in length. Students may bring in their own stimuli to create dance.  The following elements of dance must be included and  clearly visible:

     Space – a combination of 6 straight and/or curved lines; include level and focus variations;

     Shape – combination and variety of body shapes;

     Time – a minimum of 4 different uses of time;

     Energy – minimum of 3 different energy actions varying intensity and quality of the movements.

Teacher allows option for students to rehearse and explore, taking teacher, peer and self-evaluation feedback into account.

 

II    The Dance Artist At Work

Students create a dance work within the framework of the designated criteria.

Students complete the dance work.

 

III  Ready, And ...

Students rehearse and polish dance work.

Teacher provides verbal and/or written feedback.

Students rework, redo and polish work.

 

IV  ...Go!

Teacher will videotape each groups’ presentation of the assignment.

Students present, share and observe each groups’ dance work.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.   Students are provided with the rubrics for evaluating their compositions and their creative process at the beginning of this activity.  Discussion should take place to ensure that the students are aware of and understand the criteria contained in the rubrics.

2.   Teacher provides feedback throughout the creative process to assist students in achieving criteria set out in rubrics.

 

Resources

 

#6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 19

 

Appendices

Appendix B: Rubric – Evaluation for Compositions.

Appendix F: Rubric – Evaluation of Creative Process Within a Group

 

 

Activity #8:  Reflection, Self-Evaluation and Teacher Evaluation

                      of Compositional Work

 

Time: 75 minutes

 

Description

 

Students will have the opportunity to discuss and self-evaluate the dance works they have created.

Students will have the opportunity to discuss the teacher’s evaluation of the dance works they have

Observation and analytical skills will be used to summarize the elements of dance activities.

 

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:            CGE 2a, 3c, 4a,b,c,d,f,h, 5c,f,g, 7b.

 

Strand(s) and Expectations

 

Strands:     Theory, Creation, Analysis

Overall Expectations:      TTV.01X, TTV.05X, TCV.01X, 02X, 03X, 04X, 05X, TAV.01X, 03X

Specific Expectations:      TT1.04X, TC1.01X*, 02X, 03X*, 04X*, TC2.03X*, TC3.01X*, 02X, TA3.02X

 

Planning Notes

 

     Teacher may prepare appropriate reflection, prayer, Scripture, poetry, etc. examples to begin activity.

     Teacher prepares, with student in-put,  a student self-evaluation sheet.

     Teacher obtains TV, VCR, recorded videotape of students’ dance  works.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

Activities 1 through 7 with an emphasis on 7.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

I     Self-Evaluation

Teacher distributes and discusses the self-evaluation sheet.

Teacher presents the videotaping of students’ dance works twice.

Students evaluate themselves and record on sheet provided.

 

 

 

II    Teacher Talk

Teacher leads students in discussion/reflection of their dance work, the process, and their accomplishments.

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

1.  Teacher evaluates each group’s dance according to rubric (Appendix B).  Individual process work is evaluated according to rubric (Appendix F.)  Teacher assesses students reflective journals to monitor growth.

2.  Students self-evaluate using the same rubrics.

 

Resources

 

#6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 19, 22 – 34.

 

Appendices

Appendix B:  Rubric – Evaluation of Composition

Appendix F:  Rubric – Evaluation of Creative Process Within a Group

 

Appendix A: Movement Activities and Exercises

 

 

Name/Movement Group Building

     students in scatter formation around the room

     have students develop a movement done twice to accompany their names said twice – for example: “Kelly, Kelly” accompanied by right arm pushed forward twice

     in groups of four: teach each other names and movements; put them into an interesting sequence

     rehearse the sequence so that the group can perform it in a line

     combine two groups, have students teach one another and rehearse the 8 movement sequence in a line

     have the students perform their sequences simultaneously while chanting the names

     share in individual groups of 8 only if it is evident the students are comfortable doing so

 

Susie Picks Harry Name Game

     students stand in a circle and independently create a movement that is unique to themselves

     students take turns sharing their name and their movement aloud

     students stand in a circle with one person in the middle

     volunteer says his/her own name followed by “picks” and the name of another student (eg. “Susie picks Harry”

     Harry would then say: “Harry picks Indira..”  Indira would then say, “Indira picks Mario,” etc.

     The job of the student in the middle is to tag the student who is picked before that student can name another student.  For example, the student in the middle tries to tag Harry before Harry can say that he picked Indira or tries to tag Mario before Indira can say that she picked Mario.

     When the student in the middle successfully tags someone being “picked”, s/he switches places with that person

     The person who just left the middle starts off again by picking someone; the starting person cannot be tagged.

 

This name game works best once the students know some of the names.

 

Partnered Stretches

     face their partner and hold one wrist tightly

     while continuing to hold hands, pull away from each other, finding a place of mutual balance; this balance can be on both feet, symmetrical or asymmetrical, being sure to relax necks and shoulders

     once balance is achieved, allow gravity to stretch each body fully by holding this relaxed balance position as long as is comfortable

 

Human Sculptures

     in partners: one becomes the clay and the other the sculptor. The clay has closed eyes.  The sculptor shapes the clay into an interesting shape by firm but gentle “strokes” along the body of the clay, indicating direction i.e. along the arms, legs, back, shoulders, head of the clay.......  There is no talking allowed.  Music is played.  The students must evolve a way of communicating through the touches. 

     once the students have each experienced being both clay and sculptor, challenge them to be “intelligent” clay.   Intelligent clay never stops moving.  It has an intelligence of its own that inspires it to keep moving until it receives an “instruction” to change that movement through the touches of the sculptor.  The clay still has closed eyes.  Ensure that the students move in silence to music and that they are a safe distance apart.  What happens is that although the sculptor is attempting to shape the clay, they begin to become responsive to each other, beginning to dance a duet of sorts as they work to communicate and to understand each other.

 

 

Secret Partner

     students in scatter formation

     instruct them to select a secret partner without giving away whom they have selected

     instruct them to mill about the space, filling the space, always keeping their silent partner within their sight, never giving away whom it is they are partnering

     instruct them to move as far away as possible from their secret partner

     instruct them to move as closely as possible to their secret partner without looking at them and, if possible, without giving away whom it is they are moving closely too

     students move back to scatter formation

     they choose a second secret partner and repeat the exercise

     instruct the students to arrange themselves without talking so that they form an equi-lateral triangle with their two secret partners.......the triangle can be any size but they must be the same distance from each other in a triangle shape

 

The task is accomplished when everyone is standing still.  This may take a considerable amount of time if people keep moving.  Point out how the movement of one person affects the movement of many others, depending on the pattern in which they are connected.  Discuss how this spatial relationship and connectivity can be used in composition.

 

Face to Face Mirroring

     students are partnered, facing each other, arm’s length apart

     one is leader, one is follower

     the leader moves on the spot slowly, using a variety of body parts to lead with

     the task of the follower is to stay exactly in synchronization with the leader

     Variations: switch who is leading and who is following, change partners often, challenge the students to stay together without a designated leader or follower: both people initiating movements.

 

Space Invader Exercise

     one student stands still and maintains eye contact with a partner throughout exercise

     one partner slowly walks in a circle around the student, gradually getting closer

     once eye contact is broken, or the standing student says “stop”, the distance from the closest moving student is marked and measured

     students switch roles and repeat

     teacher organizes students in groups of five or more

     one student stands still and maintains eye contact with any member of the group throughout exercise

     remaining (4 or more) students slowly walk in a circle around the student, gradually getting closer, using arms and legs to get closer without touching the standing student

     once eye contact is broken, or standing student says “stop”, the distance from the closest moving student is marked and measured

     exercise is repeated until all members of the group have had their turn at being the center person

     students discuss the similarities and differences between their feeling of personal space with one person and with the group

Appendix B: Rubric – Evaluation of Composition

 

 

Element

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

SHAPE

 

(combination and

variety of body

shapes3)

 

uses shape in familiar contexts with limited effectiveness

 

uses shape in familiar contexts with moderate effectiveness

 

 

uses shape in familiar contexts with considerable effectiveness

 

 

uses shape in familiar contexts with a high degree of effectiveness

 

SPACE

 

(6 straight/ curved lines, variations of level and focus)

 

uses space in familiar contexts with limited effectiveness

 

 

uses space in familiar

contexts with moderate effectiveness

 

 

uses space in familiar contexts with considerable effectiveness

 

uses space in familiar contexts with a high degree of effectiveness

TIME

 

(4 different uses)

 

uses time in familiar contexts with limited effectiveness

 

uses time in familiar

contexts with moderate effectiveness

 

 

uses time in familiar contexts with considerable effectiveness

 

uses time in familiar contexts with a high degree of effectiveness

ENERGY

 

(3 energy actions, variations of intensity and quality of movement)

 

 

uses energy in familiar contexts with limited effectiveness

 

uses energy in familiar

contexts with moderate effectiveness

 

uses energy  in familiar contexts with considerable effectiveness

 

uses energy in familiar contexts with a high degree of effectiveness

 

 

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