Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2022 - CA 322 D100

Intermediate Ballet I (3)

Class Number: 7000

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 7 – Dec 6, 2022: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor program, or prior approval.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores the vocabulary and movement range of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Further attention will be given to the understanding of body placement, balance, flexibility and strength. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. May repeat for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Course Description:

This is a progressive studio course in ballet for dance students that have been accepted to the Dance Program via audition.

In this course we explore ballet technique at the intermediate to advanced level. Classes will be grounded in classical ballet technique and focus equally on developing physical, artistic, and cognitive skills required for contemporary ballet practice in the 21st century. Students will be encouraged to apply a multimodal approach to their ballet training and embody movement concepts through physical execution, marking, mental imagery, journaling, vocalization, reading, partner work, and visual/aural/tactile observation. Movement theory and concepts will draw from the instructor’s training in Cecchetti and Vaganova methods of ballet instruction, certification in Laban/Bartenieff Movement Studies and research in dance cognition.

Classes will be organized into bi-weekly units where specific concepts and movement principles will be emphasized within the traditional structure of ballet class (barre, centre, and across the floor exercises). Below are examples of theory and concepts that may be emphasized (please note these are subject to change):

Week 1 and 2: Grounding, Balance, and Stability

Week 3 and 4: Traveling, Weight Shift, and Mobility

Week 5 and 6: Rotation and Transverse Pathways

Week 7 and 8: Musicality, Rhythm, and Phrasing

Week 9 and 10: Dynamic Changes in Weight and Flow Effort

Week 11 and 12: Clarifying Spatial Intent, Spatial Pulls, and Countertension

Week 13:  Bringing it all together and final evaluation

 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes:

- Investigate how core principles of ballet technique can support individual expression and cultivate an inclusive and diverse environment for dance in the 21st century. 

- Develop kinesthetic awareness

- Expand one’s dynamic range of motion technically and artistically.

- Empower learning by developing self-reflection and observational skills

Grading

  • Documentation and Reflection 25%
  • Work Habits and Improvement 40%
  • Physical Execution 35%

NOTES:

Grading will align with the standard SCA Grading Scheme.

Documentation and Reflection: Students will document and reflect on individual learning processes and studio experiences. This may take the form of journaling, video recordings, drawings, and/or verbal description.

Work Habits and Improvement: Students will be evaluated weekly on their overall work ethic which includes participation, attentiveness, punctuality, professionalism, and openness to explore different approaches to contemporary ballet training.

Physical Execution: Students will be evaluated on their technical and artistic performance. Special attention will be given to how students physically embody movement concepts from the bi-weekly focus area (see above for examples of bi-weekly units). During the last week (week 13) students will complete a final physical evaluation in class.

REQUIREMENTS:

Class Attire: No heavy or baggy clothing that impedes one’s range of motion or the ability to observe body alignment. For safety reasons please do not wear jewelry. Hair must be secured off the face and neck.

Attendance: Attendance is mandatory in all studio classes. In cases of illness, injury, family emergencies, etc., documentation will need to be provided and excusing these absences will be at the discretion of the instructor and dance area coordinator.

Homework: There will be some work required outside of class time including journaling, practice sessions, and supplementary readings that align with core movement principles practiced in class. These readings will be available via Canvas.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

  • Soft ballet slippers. Pointe shoes may be worn with permission (no rosin in studios).
  • Journal/notebook and a mobile video recording device (such as a smartphone) are strongly encouraged to bring to class.
  • Water bottle (must be “non-breakable” for use in studio)

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html