An introduction to the basic technique and fundamental principles of social dance. Movement is presented by means of demonstration, description, and exploration. No prior dance experience necessary.

There is no textbook requirement for this course. All reading materials will be provided through Canvas.

• 1. Learn and practice beginning level social dance technique and terminology
• 2. Understand and practice healthy anatomical alignment
• 3. Demonstrate an understanding of lead & follow
• 4. Increase kinesthetic awareness, musicality, and individual artistry
• 5. Develop an appreciation for and understanding of varying social dances as an art form

Course Content / Assessment Percentage of Final Grade

• In-class participation & attendance 70%
• Midterm & final exam 20%
• Reflection paper 10%

In-class participation & attendance (70%):

Punctuality, presence, and intentional engagement are pivotal to students’ success in this course—see Attendance Policies & Tardiness (below). It is from this category that points will be deducted for going over allotted absences. Students are expected to engage fully while present to best serve themselves and their peers when learning.

Midterm & final exam (20%):

Two (2) technique demonstrations will be performed in groups (never solo), one midterm and one final, each counting for 10%. If a student cannot be present during a midterm or final, they must communicate this at least one week in advance and will then be required to send in a video version. Both demonstrations of technique will be pulled directly from class material students have already learned (students will not be required to learn new material on the spot).

Reflection paper (10%):

Students will write a 2-page reflection paper in direct response to their midterm and first half of the semester, self-assessing strengths and areas of desired improvement. Prompts will be provided and sourced from the students.

Grading Scale

All assignments must be submitted in order to receive a grade. Attendance and participation are essential components of this course. Please keep in mind that students must receive a C or higher in order for this course to be used toward a Theatre or Dance major or minor.

Late Assignments / Makeup Work

All late assignments will be accepted at a 5%-point deduction if turned in within 48 hours of the original deadline, a 10%-point deduction if turned in within a week of the original deadline, and a 20%-point deduction if turned in within two weeks of the original deadline. Assignments will receive 0% if over two weeks late.

Attendance Policy

Attendance is required for all classes unless excused by the instructor or for official university travel where documentation is present. Communication will be key should absences be necessary; please be sure to communicate often and with as much detail as possible. If you do miss a class, it is your responsibility to make up the work.

Students are allowed two unexcused absences before their grade is affected.

On a student’s third unexcused absence, their grade will drop half a letter grade, as outlined below.

3 unexcused absences: A

4 unexcused absences: A-

5 unexcused absences: B

6 unexcused absences: C+

7 unexcused absences: C-

8 unexcused absences: D

In addition to attendance, grades are contingent upon the completion and quality of all other course requirements as outlined by the professor (the above example assumes students have 100% on all other assignments).

Tardiness

Students are allowed six tardies—or the equivalent of two total absences—before their grade is affected. On a student’s seventh tardy, their grade will drop half a letter grade, as outlined below.

3 tardies = 1 absence = A; 6 tardies = 2 absences = A; 7 tardies = A-; 8 tardies = B; 9 tardies = C+; 10 tardies = C-; 11 tardies = D

Observation

If a student is unable to participate in a studio-based class due to an injury or otherwise, students are allowed to sit out and observe with approval from the professor and in some cases, a doctor’s note. They will be required to fill out a hardcopy observation form to be handed in to the professor at the end of class (found in each dance studio’s sound cabinet). Students are allowed six observations, or the equivalent of two total absences before their grade is affected. On a student’s seventh observation, their grade will drop half a letter grade, as outlined below.

3 observations = 1 absence = A; 6 observations = 2 absences = A; 7 observations = A-; 8 observations = B; 9 observations = C+; 10 observations = C-; 11 observations = D

(Below is adapted from Muhlenberg College)

Responsibilities of the student include:

• Students are required to identify to the instructor, in advance, that their absence will be for excused religious reasons.
• Students must make these arrangements in a way that allows for the instructor to plan how missed work will be made up.
• Students are required to make up any work that is missed.
• Students must take responsibility for honestly representing their religious commitments when missing a class.

Responsibilities of the instructor include:

• Instructors will make sure that work missed for a religious holiday can be made up by the student.
• Instructors will articulate clear guidelines for how a student may make up missed work.
• Instructors will make students aware of the way in which an attendance policy allows for making up work missed for a religious holiday.
• Instructors may give an exam on a religious holiday provided that there is an appropriate way for a student to make up the exam if it is missed due to the observance of a religious holiday.

Dance Studio Etiquette

• Attire: Socks (or barefoot) and comfortable form fitting clothing that do not hinder movement are required. No dresses or skirts. Choose clothing you do not mind sweating in.
• Long hair should be secured away from the face. Do not wear large jewelry – rings, bracelets, necklaces – or hats to class.
• Do not use your cell phone, for any reason, purpose, or at any time in the studio. Turn it off before entering the space. Check messages and/or make calls outside the studio between classes.
• No gum, food, or drink is allowed in the studio. (Water bottles are highly encouraged!)
• Remove your shoes before entering the studio. Put them back on outside the studio.
• Take all feedback as if it were your own.
• Stay focused, attentive, and involved during the entire class.
• Do not sit down or lean on the barre or mirrors.
• Place your belongings on the side of the studio. *The department is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Contact Disclaimer

An often-necessary component of this course is physical contact. Physical touch can often be the most effective way for the instructor to offer feedback and/or guidance. Consent will always be requested prior. If you are uncomfortable in any way—or have any injuries—do not hesitate to discuss this with the instructor before or after class.

Gender Identity Announcement

Students have the right to express their gender identity freely. The dance faculty is committed to creating a safe and positive learning environment for each and every student. Please let us know your specific gender pronoun, during class introductions, office hours, or by email.

Subject Matter, Course Content, Values

To study Theatre & Dance is to study the human condition. The department respects SUU’s policy on academic freedom and reserves the right to address controversial issues as they relate to the art forms. If anything occurs that you feel is inappropriate or compromises trust, please feel free to discuss these feelings with the instructor, the department chair, or any faculty or staff member with whom you feel comfortable. Students have the right to respectfully leave class without consequence if they are uncomfortable with the material.

Assumption of Risk

Movement, Dance, and or Stage Combat coursework carry with them certain inherent risks that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care taken to avoid injuries. I know, understand, and appreciate these and other risks inherent in the activity I am participating in. I hereby assert that my participation is voluntary and that I knowingly assume all such risks.

The Department of Theatre Arts and Dance does take all possible precautions for the welfare and safety of its students. If students believe choreography or movement is too risky or notice other risks to their health or welfare, the student should stop immediately and report the condition or concern to any faculty member or directly to the department chair.

Disclaimer Statement

Information contained in this syllabus, other than the grading, late assignments, makeup work, and attendance policies, may be subject to change with advance notice, as deemed appropriate by the instructor.