DNCE 180

DNCE 180: Jazz Dance (GE)

Credit Hours: (2) Three to Four-and-a-half hours technique.

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the professional practice of jazz dance--its terminology, movement vocabulary, and aesthetic values. The student masters jazz dance skills on a beginning level of professional study, develops the ability to move rhythmically, experiences creative endeavor, and applies acquired knowledge and skills to develop their professional practice. Students critically reflect on their developing professional identity and practice within professional contexts through weekly journaling and/or a final reflection paper.

Note(s): General Education and Applied Learning designated course. May be taken for a total of six semester hours credit.

Detailed Description of Content of Course

1. Technique

            a. Stretches
            b. Contractions
            c. Body rolls
            d. Center floor exercises
            e. Isolations
            f. Turns
            g. Walks and combinations
            h. Rhythmic exercises and combinations

2. Improvisation

3. Studies in jazz dance

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

A professional approach in which the fundamental technique of jazz dance is introduced.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

At the conclusion of the course the student will:

Demonstrate an intellectual and physical understanding of the fundamental principles of jazz dance techniques.
Be able to execute movement combinations that reveal sensitivity to form and style of jazz dance.
Possess knowledge of elementary jazz dance terminology.
Critically reflect on their developing physical practice and identity within professional contexts.

Assessment Measures

The student may be measured through direct observation by the instructor, digital/video taping for analysis, practical and written exams, and class attendance, and weekly journals or final written reflection papers.

Other Course Information

At the instructor's discretion, the student's basic and traditional dance education may be supplemented by such aids as viewing videos of jazz dance, attending live dance performances, and keeping logs.

Review and Approval

March 24, 1998 Review Margaret Devaney, Chair

September 12, 2001 Review Margaret Devaney, Chair

July 14, 2005 Review Margaret Devaney, Chair

June 20, 2015

March 01, 2021