Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - CA 323 D100

Intermediate Ballet II (3)

Class Number: 6344

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA (or FPA) 322 or prior approval.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Continuation of CA (or FPA) 322, with an emphasis on expanding 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:

This course explores the vocabulary and movement range of Contemporary Ballet Technique at the upper-intermediate to advanced level and is intended for serious dance students. Many elements from various classical ballet methodologies will be incorporated. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. Attention will be given to the understanding of anatomically sound body use/dynamic alignment, technical development, spatial awareness and expressivity.

Each student will be encouraged to work constructively with their individual structure. Anatomically sound principles of the body will be employed and will be contrasted with body myths and misconceptions, which can be harmful, unbalanced or even injurious. We’ll work to promote awareness and efficient use of the body in ways applicable to ballet technique and all other dance forms. We’ll explore and challenge our unique habitual movement patterns that are both efficient and inefficient at times. Students will be encouraged to take stock of their unique skill sets and explore their movement practice with curiosity and rigor.

Elements integral to dance expression and performance will also be explored. Technical development will be based on anatomically sound principles, kinesthetic awareness, and joy of moving. In emphasis on technical consistency, alignment integrity/connectivity, specificity, artistry and clarity of work will be both encouraged and evaluated.

Grading

  • Technical Ability: Includes: anatomically correct dynamic alignment, integrated whole body use, strength, flexibility, clarity, precision, movement range/freedom, flow, musicality, expressivity, overall balanced coordination, and consistency of work. 50%
  • Work Habits (Active Participation/Attitude/Application/Focus): This involves a willingness to let go of known movement habits/stereotypes, constructive risk-taking, openness towards feed-back and application of a new/different approach, application of corrections (individual and class feedback), self-motivation, focus and concentration, consistency 25%
  • Overall Improvement/Progress: Includes: integrated dynamic alignment and whole body use, coordination, balance, movement ease, efficiency, flow, clarity, direction, musicality, strength, greater consistency and technical mastery, and performativity 25%

Materials

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