Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - CA 427 D100

Advanced Ballet I (3)

Class Number: 7033

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    One of CA 322 or 323.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An extension of classical ballet technique on an upper intermediate level. Understanding of basic principles is assumed and attention will be focused on combinations of movement, musicality and performance. May repeat for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is a progressive studio course in ballet for serious dance students who have been accepted into the SCA Dance Program via audition. This course is a Contemporary Ballet class that offers both theory and practice of ballet technique at the intermediate to advanced level. Many elements from classical ballet methodologies will be incorporated into our class framework yet applicable to contemporary ballet practise and other movement forms in the 21st. century. Attention will be given to the understanding of anatomically sound body use/dynamic allignment, technical development. spatial awareness, and expressivity. We will work to incorporate elements of strength, flexibility, stamina, precision, clarity, breadth and flow to promote efficient and connective use of the body. Students will be encouraged to work diligently, constructively and consistently through personal motivation, concentration, discipline and curiosity. Elements integral to dance expression, musicality and performance will be explored. Technical development will be based on anatomically sound principles, kinesthetic awareness, and joy of moving.

Grading

  • Technical Ability/Performance - Includes: anatomically correct placement/dynamic body alignment, integrated whole body use/coordination and connectivity, strength, flexibility, clarity of line, specificity, elevation/ballon, ability to pick up combinations of movement, physical stamina and energy 50%
  • Work Habits/Attitude/Active Participation - This involves a willlingness to let go of known movement habits/sterotypes/one way of doing things, constructive risk-taking, openness towards feed-back and application of a new or different approach, application of individual and class corections, focus, concentration, consistency, positive energy, deep investment and ownership in developing your own movement practice and managing your own motivation. 25%
  • Overall Improvement/Progress - Includes: integrated whole-body use (dynamic body alignment), technical and artistic growth, movement ease, efficiency, flow, clarity, direction, musicality, consistency 25%

NOTES:

Dance Area Grading Policy in Regard to Attendance in Studio Courses

Policy
Attendance is mandatory in all studio classes. Any missed studio classes will affect your grade. This policy does not give you permission to miss any classes. The policy only documents the specific outcomes of missing class. The following policy is being implemented across all dance studio courses with the exception of Repertory courses where absences will result in being withdrawn from performing or from the course. It is understood that some courses are mostly or completely participatory (technique). In these courses your grade will be greatly affected by any absences. In serious situations related to injury, illness, emergencies, etc., please communicate with your instructor directly or via email.  Excusing these absences will be at the discretion of the instructor and dance area coordinator.

 

REQUIREMENTS:

Overly heavy clothing, which hinders the teacher and one’s own ability to view the body, is not allowed. Please do not wear any jewelry in class, and secure hair away from face and neck. Ballet shoes are required. No gum chewing allowed.

Please note: “Pointe work” – Students must ask instructor for permission to take ballet class on pointe, no rosin allowed in studios.

*NON-BREAKABLE “WATER BOTTLES” WELCOMED & ENCOURAGED IN STUDIO’S

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Bring dance journal/notebook to class.

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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.