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Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

Elizabeth A Cooper
DANCE 102
Seattle Campus

Introduction to Dance

Introduction to dance as an art form. Lectures in dance appreciation. Studio experience in ballet or modern dance techniques, may include experience in both techniques. Attendance required at outside events. Prerequisite: DANCE 101.

Class description

Introduction to Dance II: The focus of the course is on extending our practice in both modern and ballet techniques as we also develop a deeper understanding of 20-21st century choreography and its relationship with history, culture and society. This course will look at the ways dance offers up a commentary on, a reflection of, a reaction to, and an appeal for aesthetic, social and cultural change. We will explore a variety of choreographies that, whether intended or consequentially, challenge contemporary norms of identity by questioning notions about what constitutes dance, its subject matter and its performers ?

Each DANCE 102 student is expected to participate in 3 hours of crew work during the load-in or strike of the Dance Program MFA Concert.

Student learning goals

Understand dance as an art form that reflects and impacts local communities and global cultures.

Think analytically, comparatively, and contextually.

Develop skills in rhythmic and movement/composition analysis.

Become articulate about the art form, via the spoken and written word

Develop kinesthetic awareness and how to use the body as a mode of understanding and expression

Develop an awareness of the extent of one's personal responsibility toward his/her own learning process and social contribution

General method of instruction

This class will be taught by two instructors: Elizabeth "Betsy" Cooper and Stephanie Scopelitis. This is primarily a movement-based class, with outside assignments. Each week we will meet in the studio to deepen skills in ballet and modern techniques. Studio work may also involve some improvisation and short compositional studies. Some group work may be required. Once a week will we meet to discuss reading and video assignments in depth. It is expected that everyone will read and/or view the assigned materials before coming to class so that an engaged and lively conversation will unfold.

Recommended preparation

Dance 101 or some dance experience at the beginning level.

Class assignments and grading

There will be weekly reading, video and writing assignments to be completed outside of class time. Some group project work will also be assigned.

Grades will be based on participation in daily technique classes, class discussions and group projects, as well as the satisfactory completion of all reading , viewing, written assignments, three hours of crew for the MFA concert, and concert attendance at the MFA performance May 10-13, 2007.

Participation in dance technique class involves: · Attending class on a consistent basis · Arriving on time or early so that you have time to focus and prepare to participate fully in class* · Demonstrating individual progress toward achieving the kinesthetic, aesthetic and intellectual goals of the course · Demonstrating a working knowledge of the movment terminology at the beg level · Attendance at MFA concert in the Meany Studio Theater


The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by Dinah K. Aldrich
Date: 04/09/2007