Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - CA 420 D100

Dance Training and Movement Systems VII (4)

Class Number: 4401

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 285 and CA 321.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The third upper division courses which build upon the movement vocabulary and practice of contemporary dance. Can be repeated twice for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an advanced level contemporary technique class. Moving through a
warmup sequence from the floor to standing, we will approach diferent principals that
will be returned to as we move across the floor, into center phrase work and jumps. The
course will be framed by a set of technical and qualitative elements such as:

Sensation: Sensation of motion, integration of the parts and supporting structures.
Connecting to the internal distribution of energy. Feeling what is needed based on the
intention behind each sequence.

Weight/Gravity: Sensing how we distribute, hold and release tension, our connection
to the floor and the use gravity as an accessible filed- a technical principal for moving.

Release and suspension: How our leg joints and feet connect to the floor and shift to
accommodate trajectories of release and motion. How we can indulge and suspend in
moments of falling and momentum.

Joints: A focus on the geometry of our body, the folds and ball and socket rotations,
lines, and arcs.

Spatial Geometry: How our facings and initiations are supported by a structural
awareness of the body in relation to the room. Using these dimensions as markers for
specific trajectories and initiations. We will also work with taking space- how to travel
horizontally- falling into the space with control.


COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Each student is encouraged to work with the following principals:

- A productive, curious approach to practice

- Attention to complex technical and qualitative articulations within sequences.

- Focused and sensitive observation and listening -supporting the group environment

- Willingness and openness to ask questions, receive and incorporate feedback

- Consistent pursuit to full potential

Grading

  • Work Habits 40%
  • Mechanics 30%
  • Presence and Performance 30%

NOTES:

 

Grades will be based on the following:

- Work Habits %40: Daily commitment to the working process and a proactive approach to practice.

- Mechanics %30: Physical understanding of functional alignment and movement principles covered in class.

- Performance %30: Your commitment, focus awareness, expression, and incorporation of principals covered in class. The quality of your dancing.

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

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.