Course Profile   Dance (ATC4M), Grade 12, University/College Preparation, Catholic and Public

 

Unit 3:  Composition

Time:  30 hours

Unit Description

Students use improvisation, compositional forms, various approaches to choreography, and complex dance forms to work on themes related to three genres of choreography. Using a set of aesthetic principles, students create and demonstrate group work and explain orally and in writing, the artistic intent. They use technology as an analytical tool for creating dances. Students show increased proficiency in creating, rehearsing, and performing dance. They demonstrate leadership, problem solving, and sensitivity to others. They employ elements of composition in increasingly complex dances forms and principles of technique that are found in a broad spectrum of dance in Canada and in the rest of the world effectively. Through analysing the significance and function of Canadian dance artists, students explore the formal structure and meaning of a broad spectrum of dance forms.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Task

1.
Review of Composition Skills

2 hours

THV.01, CR2.01, CR3.01, ANV.01
CGE2c, CGE2d, CGE4f, CGE5a

Knowledge/ Understanding Thinking/ Inquiry Communication

Review of compositional concepts Improvisation Creation of movement studies

2. Improvisation/ Composition

6 hours

CR2.02, CR2.05, CR3.01, ANV.01
CGE2c, CGE2d, CGE4f, CGE5a

Knowledge/ Understanding Thinking/ Inquiry Communication

Improvisation Creation of movement studies
Written reaction assignment

3.
Exploration of Three Genres of Dance

8 hours

TH1.02, TH1.03, TH1.04, CRV.01, CR1.02, CR3.01, ANV.01, ANV.02, AN1.02, AN1.04, AN1.05, AN1.06
CGE2c, CGE2d, CGE4f, CGE4g, CGE5a

Thinking/ Inquiry Communication Application

Improvising to compose Choreography Composition and presentation of student pieces

4.
Choreography

14 hours

CR1.03, CR2.03, CR2.06, CR3.01, CRV.02, CRV.03, ANV.01, AN1.04, AN2.01
CGE2b, CGE2c, CGE2d, CGE2e, CGE3b, CGE3c, CGE3d, CGE3e, CGE4a, CGE4b, CGE4c, CGE4d, CGE4e, CGE4f, CGE4g, CGE5a, CGE5b, CGE5c, CGE5d, CGE5e, CGE5f, CGE5g, CGE7b, CGE7f, CGE7g, CGE7j

Knowledge/ Understanding Thinking/ Inquiry Communication Application

Choreography Presentation

Dance Analysis

 

Activity 1:  Review of Composition Skills

Time:  2 hours

Description

Through improvisation, the creation of short movement studies, and the use of modern dance technique, students review various dance forms and compositional principles using appropriate terminology. Students analyse, interpret, and evaluate the formal structures of composition, in their own work and the work of Canadian artists. Throughout this activity, students demonstrate leadership and good rehearsal and performance practices.

Strand(s):  Theory, Creation, Analysis

Refer to the Expectations Chart at the beginning of the unit.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Unit 1 – Strong Technique Leads to Artistry

Planning Notes

·         Plan a survey to determine student level of understanding of composition principles and terminology and of skill development.

·         Plan warm up activity.

·         Find out if students have the resources for and are able to use technology:

·         If they are going to use technology as part of their Unit 4 Culminating Performance Task, students should be aware of format as they begin to record in Unit 3. (e.g., PowerPoint®, iMovie2®, website, video, CD-ROM, DVD, still photography)

·         The dance animation program Life Forms® can be used to explore concepts of composition either before or during choreography or as a method of documentation.

·         If necessary, provide review and instruction.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

·         The teacher leads warm up using one or two of the principles of composition to be reviewed, i.e., space, time, and dynamics.

·         The teacher leads an improvisation exploring floor patterns that use curves, lines, zigzag, and spiral patterns.

·         The teacher reviews, through improvisation, the exploration of patterns that limbs and other body parts can make in the air, alternating and encouraging use of various levels, repetition, and linear and curved movement.

·         The teacher reviews through improvisation, curved, angular, symmetrical and asymmetrical body shapes, alternating and encouraging the use of different levels.

·         Students work in duets or trios to create shapes in relation to each other.

·         Students share their work with the class.

·         The teacher provides suggestions and constructive feedback for improvement.

·         Through the manipulation of motif (studied in Grade 11 Dance Course), students, in small groups, create a movement study exploring canon.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative – The teacher assesses students’ level of understanding and execution of review tasks and provides feedback through conferencing and class discussions.

·         The teacher makes anecdotal notes on students’ progress and areas for improvement.

Accommodations

The teacher provides assistance to students who have physical limitations.

Resources

Beatty, Patricia. Form Without Formula. A Concise Guide to the Choreographic Process. Toronto: Press of Terpsichore Limited, 1985. ISBN 0-929003-17-9

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Moment of Movement, Dance Improvisation. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988. ISBN 0-8229-5405-2

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Intimate Act of Choreography. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1982. ISBN 0-8229-5342-0

Hayes, R.R. Dance Composition and Production. New York: Ronald Press, 1955.

Humphrey, Doris. The Art of Making Dances. New York: Grove Press Inc., 1991.
ISBN 0871271583

Smith, Jacqueline M. A Practical Guide for Teachers. London: A&C Black, 1985.
ISBN 0-7136-27-92-1

 

Activity 2:  Improvisation/Composition

Time:  6 hours

Description

This activity emphasizes improvisation and creation using compositional principles to explore movement that come from an authentic source, e.g., the breath. When phrases of movement are built from an authentic source, the dance develops richness in the genre investigated. Students analyse, interpret, and evaluate by looking at their own work, how this authentic source is reflected in the development of original/unique movement. Students demonstrate appropriate leadership roles and attitudes.

Strand(s):  Creation, Analysis

Refer to the Expectations Chart at the beginning of the unit.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Unit 1 – Strong Technique Leads to Artistry, Unit 2 (as imbedded in Unit 3), Unit 3 – Activity 1

Planning Notes

·         Plan exercises that use the breath phrase.

·         Allot time for feedback in class.

·         Provide assistance/guidance to students who lack prior knowledge.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

I     Warm up

The teacher begins each class with a warm up to prepare the body and mind.

Example: Students start at the low level using the breath in an even inhalation, they expand to a shape at the middle level and on their exhalation, they return to the low level. They may repeat this exercise exploring all three levels, varying the evenness of the inhalation and the exhalation.

II   Initial Investigation of the Breath Phrase

Through teacher-directed exploration, students:

·         look at the various ranges of dynamic changes that result from different breath tempos, e.g., breathe in slowly, out fast; in jaggedly, out suddenly;

·         explore breath phrases through locomotion using assorted shapes and levels;

·         analyse, in pairs to share with the class, how the breath phrase creates an authentic approach to these three elements of composition: locomotion, dynamic colouration, and body shapes.

III  Building the Movement Study

·         Students choose three or four phrases of movement originating from the breath stimulus and create a movement study.

·         From this movement study, students write emotional reaction phrases that best reflect the dynamics of their solo.

·         Students exchange phrases and use another student’s writing as a stimulus to create a new movement study.

·         In groups of three or four, students connect these phrases to form a group study, noticing that the movement from the breath and the emotional intent translated through the writing may have similar dynamics and mood.

·         Each group presents their breath study.

·         Students reflect on one another’s works during class discussion.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         The teacher, through observation, assesses students’ level of understanding and execution of tasks and provides feedback through conferencing, class discussion, and anecdotal notes.

·         The teacher assesses reflections.

Accommodations

·         Students with physical limitations can adapt movement as necessary, e.g., a student may breathe, expanding and stretching the body on their back and exhale while curling onto their side.

·         The teacher provides assistance/guidance to student reflection/writing when necessary, (audio-taped response, scribed by parent/teacher/peer).

Resources

Beatty, Patricia. Form Without Formula. A Concise Guide to the Choreographic Process. Toronto: Press of Terpsichore Limited, 1985. ISBN 0-929003-17-9

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Moment of Movement, Dance Improvisation. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988. ISBN 0-8229-5405-2

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Intimate Act of Choreography. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1982. ISBN 0-8229-5342-0

Cameron, Julia and Mark Bryan. The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1992. ISBN 0874776945

Humphrey, Doris. The Art of Making Dances. New York: Grove Press Inc., 1991.
ISBN 0871271583

Lincater, K. Freeing the Natural Voice. New York: Drama Book Publishers, 1976.
ISBN 0-89676-071-5

Tufnell, Miranda and Chris Crickmay. Body, Space, Image: Notes Towards Improvisation and Performance. Toronto: Virago Press Ltd., 1992. ISBN1853811319

Turner, Margery J. New Dance, Approaches to Non-Literal Choreography. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press. 1971. ISBN 0-8229-5269-6

Activity 3:  The Exploration of Three Genres of Dance

Time:  8 hours

Description

Using a variety of theoretical approaches to explore the work and contributions of a wide variety of Canadian artists, students analyse and evaluate how the cultural aspects of the work of these artists are reflected in three genres of dance composition (see Appendix 3.1). By exploring these genres in their own works, they recognize societal and artistic changes affecting current dance forms in Canada and the rest of the world. Students demonstrate effective leadership and positive attitudes.

Strand(s):  Theory, Creation, Analysis

Refer to the Expectations Chart at the beginning of the unit.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Unit 1 – Strong Technique Leads to Artistry, Unit 2 - Research

Planning Notes

·         Decide upon examples from the three genres to be studied ensuring that a variety of cultures are represented, e.g., Native peoples, African, Israeli Folk, Baroque, Renaissance dance forms, (Appendix 3.1 – Characteristics of Three Genres). Note: The teacher may choose to present one or two or all three of the genres depending upon the ability of the students.

·         Optional – Have paper and markers available for the grid activity so that students create labels for the grid, or provide prepared labels.

·         Plan warm up exercise.

·         Allot time for feedback in class.

·         Select videotapes of dance artists’ works for the test.

·         Prepare test (Appendix 3.2 – Genre Test).

·         Select a number of Canadian choreographers’ works for the writing assignment.

·         Prepare criteria for Evaluation of Writing Assignment (Appendix 3.3 – Evaluation of Writing Assignment).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

I     Warm up

·         The teacher plans warm up.

II   Exploration of Elemental Genre

·         Students observe video examples of dance and analyse how these styles share compositional principles that reflect the Elemental genre.

·         Students discuss the connection between social dance and the Elemental genre. Both often involve simple patterning, are simple to learn, and are repetitious.

·         Students choreograph a short sequence of movement that reflects the Elemental genre.

·         In groups, each student teaches his/her choreography to the others.

·         The group connects these sequences, focusing on floor pattern, relationships between dancers, and dynamics. Students perform their sequence to two contrasting but Elemental pieces of music, e.g., Mickey Hart’s Planet Drum and J. S. Bach’s, Brandenberg Concerto, No. 2.

III  Exploration of Abstract/Atmospheric Genre

·         Students choose three photos of Abstract/Atmospheric works of art, e.g., Rodin’s The Thinker, Camille Claudel’s Les Mains.

·         Students create a solo study using three or four of these images to create their own atmosphere that reflects the mood of the stimuli.

·         Students choose one of the photos as a stimulus for an opening position, create a movement phrase to move to a position representing the second photo, and create another movement phrase to move to a position representing the third photo and ending position.

·         Students present their solo studies and photos to each other and discuss the mood that the study has set.

·         The teacher divides the room into quadrants where each section represents a different dynamic/mood environment represented by a different set of impressionistic pictures.

Note: The teacher may wish to label the quadrants of the grid or have the students create labels for the grid quadrants.

·         Students travel through the grid and physically investigate the environment set by the pictures.

·         Students discuss how the grid forced them to change mood as they moved through it.

·         Students read prose or poetry, e.g., Narrow Road To The Deep North by Matsuo Bashô or
Sonnet 24 by William Shakespeare and identify the mood words in order to capture the mood in a movement study.

·         Students exchange written stimuli with a partner and repeat the creative task.

·         Students view each other’s work and comment on the similarities and differences of the interpretations.

IV  Exploration of Narrative/Character Development Genre

·         Through improvisation students explore an emotional range, e.g., joyous, happy, contented, melancholy, frustrated, angry, discontent, depleted, apathetic.

·         Students choose three emotions and create phrases, using abstraction to communicate a personal journey.

·         Students colour-code their phrases, list the colours in the order that they are performed in their phrase and exchange the list with another student.

·         The second student attaches his/her own interpretation of the emotional content of those colours and creates, using abstraction, their own reaction, e.g., some students may interpret yellow as movement that is light/sudden, while others may interpret yellow to be light/ sustained. Note: Since this is a creative process, all interpretations are acceptable.

·         Students share their movement phrases with each other and discuss the similarities and differences in interpretation of the colour-coding of the emotions.

·         Students invent a pleasant or unpleasant dream and define the emotional content of their pleasant or unpleasant dream. Caution should be used so that students are not expected to disclose beyond their comfort level.

·         Students, in small groups, share the emotional content of their pleasant or unpleasant dream and create a story for a group pleasant or unpleasant dream.

·         Through improvisation and collaboration, the small groups create a group pleasant or unpleasant dream in movement using an invented story.

·         Students present their movement studies to the class.

·         Observing students attempt to identify the content of the pleasant or unpleasant dream.

·         Students choose a character in a work of an expressionistic or romantic artist, e.g., The Raft of Medusa by Theodore Gericault or Liberty Leading the People by Eugene Delacroix.

·         Students create a movement phrase depicting the character’s emotional moment both before and after the image caught in the painting.

·         Students divide into groups based on the work of art chosen and create a phrase of movement that captures the essence of the artist’s work chosen. Students should be supplied with the characteristics of expressionism and romanticism in painting. Students end the movement phrase in a tableau.

·         Students share their phrases with the class and discuss how the new tableau captures the essence of the artist’s work.

·         In pairs, students choose a social issue, e.g., power, rivalry, alienation, abuse, homelessness, terrorism, and define the emotional content of the issue.

·         Students create a short movement study in the Narrative/Character Genre to reflect the emotional content of the issue chosen. Students should focus on movement, not acting or tableau.

·         Students present the study and the social issue used as a stimulus.

·         The class discusses the effectiveness of the choreography to express the issue and how it relates to the Narrative/Character Genre.

·         Students view a videotape and identify the social issue and discuss the effectiveness of the dance, e.g., Ain’t Nobody’s Business by Danny Grossman.

V    Writing Assignment

The teacher distributes the writing assignment.

Example: Write a one-page essay about a dance by a Canadian choreographer explaining how the theme reflects the predominant genre. How does the use of the music, set, costumes, etc. enhance the predominant genre reflected in the work?

Accommodations

Students with physical limitations can adapt movement as necessary, e.g., a student may interpret the genre with their strengths, communicating the issue chosen.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative – Teacher assesses the level of understanding and execution of tasks and provides feedback through conferencing and class discussions.

·         The teacher evaluates students’ knowledge and understanding of the three genres utilizing a test (Appendix 3.2 – Genre Test).

·         The teacher evaluates the writing assignment (Appendix 3.3 – Evaluation of Writing Assignment).

Resources

Beatty, Patricia. Form Without Formula. A Concise Guide to the Choreographic Process. Toronto: Press of Terpsichore Limited, 1985. ISBN 0-929003-17-9

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Moment of Movement, Dance Improvisation. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988. ISBN 0-8229-5405-2

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Intimate Act of Choreography. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1982. ISBN 0-8229-5342-0

Cameron, Julia and Mark Bryan. The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1992. ISBN 0874776945

Cooper, Susan. Staging Dance. New York: Theatre Arts Books, 1998. ISBN 0878300813

DuPont, Betty and Joan Schlaich. Dance. The Art of Production. Princeton: Princeton Book Company, Publishers, 1988. ISBN 0871272075

Grossman, Danny. Endangered Species. Toronto, Canada: Mossanen Productions, 1987.
Catalogue No. 2002.

Hayes, R.R. Dance Composition and Production. New York: Ronald Press, 1955.

Hinton, W. Dance of Court and Theatre: The French Noble Style, 1690–1725. Princeton, NJ: Princeton Books, 1981.

Hoggett, C. Stagecraft. A&C Black Publishers. 1975. ISBN 0-713-615575

Horst, Louis and Carroll Russell. Modern Dance Forms. In Relation to the Other Modern Arts. Princeton Book Company, Publishers, 1987. ISBN 916622525

Humphrey, Doris. The Art of Making Dances. New York: Grove Press Inc., 1991. ISBN 0871271583

Lincater, K. Freeing the Natural Voice. New York: Drama Book Publishers, 1976. ISBN 0-89676-071-5

Laurin, Ginette. Full House, O’Vertigo Danse. Toronto, Canada: Mossanen Productions, 1987. Catalogue No. 2005

Schlaich, Joan and Betty DuPont, eds. Dance: The Art of Production. Princeton, NJ: Dance Horizons/Princeton Book Company, 1988. ISBN 09166226681

Sherbon, Elizabeth. On the Count of One: A Guide to Movement and Progression in Dance. California: National Press Books, 1990. ISBN 1556520905

Smith, Jacqueline M. A Practical Guide for Teachers. London: A&C Black, 1985.
ISBN 0-7136-27-92-1

Tufnell, Miranda and Chris Crickmay. Body, Space, Image: Notes Towards Improvisation and Performance. Toronto: Virago Press Ltd., 1992. ISBN1853811319

Dance Collection Danse – www.web.net/dancecol/index.html

Dance Online New Dance From Around the World (USA) – www.danceonline.com

InfoCulture (CBC) – www.infoculture.cbc.ca/infoculture.phtml

Dansecape – www.dancescape.com

Dance Magazine – www.dancemagazine.com

– www.1000dictionaries.com/music_dictionaries_1.html

– www.bolji.com/dances/tagore.htm

– www.dancer.com/dance-links/other.htm#world

– www.gardendigest.com/poetry/haiku6.htm

 

Activity 4:  Choreography

Time:  14 hours

Description

Students collaborate, in groups, to make a dance using a variety of theoretical approaches and the formal structure and meaning of one of the genres studied. Students assume appropriate leadership roles as they use and analyse their personal artistic abilities, which they relate to possible career choices. During the activity they analyse, interpret, and evaluate the choices made.

Strand(s):  Creation, Analysis

Refer to the Expectations Chart at the beginning of the unit

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Unit 1 – Strong Technique Leads to Artistry, Unit 2 – Research, Unit 3 – Activities 1–3

Planning Notes

·         Distribute Appendix 3.1 – Characteristics of Three Genres, for student reference.

·         Plan warm up exercise.

·         Allot time for feedback in class.

·         Distribute Rubrics – Appendix 3.3 – Evaluation of the Writing Assignment, Appendix 3.4 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Elemental), Appendix 3.5 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Abstract/Atmospheric) and Appendix 3.6 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Narrative/character Development).

·         Determine resources for students’ use (Appendix 3.7 – Supplementary Resources).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

I     Warm up

·         The teacher leads warm up.

II   Getting Ready

·         Groups are formed as students pick the name of a genre “out of a hat.” They choreograph in this genre. All three genres will be represented equally in the culminating task.

·         To assist cohesiveness and good communication in the collaboration, each student is responsible, at some point in the project, to be the person who makes the final decision on an aspect of the group effort, for example, the final choice of theme, music, artistic intent, etc.

·         In their groups, students share their knowledge of the genre researched in Unit 2, to share ideas and make a thematic choice.

·         Students choose the choreographic ideas that best reflect their theme and genre.

·         Each student finds a piece of music that suits the theme.

·         Each member of the group submits his or her choice of music and explains reasons for choice. Through collaboration, the group selects the one that is the most appropriate for the theme they want to explore.

·         The teacher distributes the appropriate rubric and answers any questions.

III  Choreographic Parameters

·         Each student, using the principles in Activities 1 and 2, choreographs three to five phrases of movement that reflect the theme chosen, and shares them with the group. These phrases may be used as vocabulary for starting points or for transitions in connecting relationships between individuals/groups.

·         Students continue to collaborate using good compositional principles to choreograph a three- to five-minute piece, highlighting characteristics of their genre.

·         During the process, students videotape the work in progress for discussion/critique with the group and/or teacher.

IV  Presentation

·         Students present their piece to the class. The class critiques the work and discusses the effectiveness and visibility/clarity of the genre and communication of the theme. Notes are taken for the group for use for later refinement.

·         The teacher arranges for videotaped documentation of the performance for archival purposes for use in Unit 4, and for evaluation by the teacher (Appendix 3.4 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Elemental), Appendix 3.5 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Abstract/Atmospheric), and Appendix 3.6 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Narrative/character Development)).

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         The teacher assesses execution of tasks and provides feedback through conferencing and class discussions.

·         The teacher evaluates students’ composition using the appropriate rubric (Appendix 3.4 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Elemental), Appendix 3.5 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Abstract/Atmospheric), Appendix 3.6 – Evaluation of Group Composition (Narrative/character Development)).

Accommodations

Students with physical limitations can adapt movement as necessary, e.g., a student may interpret the genre with their strengths, communicating the genre chosen.

Resources

Beatty, Patricia. Form Without Formula. A Concise Guide to the Choreographic Process. Toronto: Press of Terpsichore Limited, 1985. ISBN 0-929003-17-9

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Moment of Movement, Dance Improvisation. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988. ISBN 0-8229-5405-2

Blom, Lynne Anne and L. Tarin Chaplin. The Intimate Act of Choreography. Pittsburgh, PA: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1982. ISBN 0-8229-5342-0

Cameron, Julia and Mark Bryan. The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1992. ISBN 0874776945

Hayes, R.R. Dance Composition and Production. New York: Ronald Press, 1955.

Hinton, W. Dance of Court and Theatre: The French Noble Style, 1690–1725. Princeton, NJ: Princeton Books, 1981.

Horst, Louis and Carroll Russell. Modern Dance Forms. In Relation to the Other Modern Arts. Princeton Book Company, Publishers, 1987. ISBN 916622525

Humphrey, Doris. The Art of Making Dances. New York: Grove Press Inc., 1991. ISBN 0871271583

Tufnell, Miranda and Chris Crickmay. Body, Space, Image: Notes Towards Improvisation and Performance. Toronto: Virago Press Ltd., 1992. ISBN 1853811319


Appendix 3.1

Characteristics of Three Genres

 

Notes: Teachers are encouraged to ask students (and their parents) to contribute examples of Dance, Music, Architecture, Visual Arts and Literature from their own culture. Teachers need to be sensitive to the cultural backgrounds of their students who may choose a very different, non-western view of genre.

 

Most works of art exhibit one genre predominately but all works contain all three genres to a greater or lesser degree. Examples include:

 

Stylistic Characteristics

Compositional Principles

Some Examples in Art Forms

Note: An artist’s work may clearly demonstrate more than one genre (e.g., Philip Glass, James Kudelka)

Elemental Genre

·         Stresses formal design, rhythm and repetition with geometric shapes/ formations, symmetry, simplicity and starkness of line

·         Is visual rather than emotional; the beauty of the form is appreciated for what it is, not for what it suggests

·         Is cool, carefully designed, with an emphasis on neat clean arrangements and good use of rules

·         Plays with space, time, energy, shape

Elemental Genre

·         Movement themes are predominant and realized through the use of repetition and patterning

·         Patterns are created in the air and/or on the floor as the body moves through space

·         Symmetry and asymmetry of body shapes are created alone and in groups

Elemental Genre

·         Dance – Merce Cunningham’s Points in Space, Twyla Tharp’s Catheryn Wheel, David Earle’s Sacra Psalms, James Kudelka’s In Paradisium, Christopher House’s Glass Houses

·         In Folk dances Senegalese, Israeli, Native American, Middle Eastern

·         See also the works of Doris Humphrey, Ruth St. Denis, Hanya Holm, and Alwin Nicholais

·         Music – Gregorian chants, Amadeus Mozart, J.S. Bach, Antonio Vivaldi, George Albanoni, Johanne Pachabel, Riuchi Sakamoto, Ladysmith Monbasa, Steven Reich, Philip Glass, Nellie (rap artist), Musika (Hungarian Folk Music), Inuit Throat Singing, Divo, Techno-pop Music, e.g., Boy’s Brigade’s Saigon, Africa, Progressive Rock Music, e.g., RUSH’s 2112

·         Architecture – Gothic (buttresses, repetition, balance, symmetry, e.g., The Rose Window), St. Peter’s Bascilica

·         Painting – M.C. Escher, Pop Art - Andy Warhol, Piet Mondrian, Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner

·         Literature – Greek Drama, e.g., Oedipus Rex, choral speaking, Shakespeare’s sonnets (iambic pentameter)

 


Appendix 3.1  (Continued)

 

Abstract/Atmospheric Genre

Abstract/Atmospheric Genre

Abstract/Atmospheric Genre

·         Creates a mood or atmosphere

·         Presents a general impression of an incident, a view, or an object, rather than to record it in detail

·         Shows what the eye sees at a glance, not what it knows to be there

·         Requires an objective attitude with no personal comment

·         Requires participation by the viewer

·         Is appreciated of what it suggests rather than what it is

·         Body shape and movements are used to establish relationships within/between groups and individuals

·         Dynamics (colouring) are used to express themes to be explored

·         Dance – David Earle’s Sacra Conversazions, Alvin Ailey’s Revelations

·         In Native Indian Dance

·         See also the works of Paul Taylor, Murray Louis, Momix, Pilabolus, Danny Grossman, Ginette Laurin, Sankai Juku, Trish Beatty, Butoh dance

·         Music – Claude Debussy, Anton Dvorak, Eric Satie, Philip Glass, Jean Michelle Jarre, Steve Reich, Philip Ross, Ruichi Sakamoto, movie sound scores, e.g., The Mission, Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, The Last Emperor, Enchanted April, The Little Buddah

·         Architecture – Kenzo Tange, National Gymnasia in Tokyo, Jorn Utzon, Sydney Opera House

·         Painting/sculpture – Claude Monet, Wasily Kandinsky’s Painting Winter, Emil Dolde’s Wildly Dancing Children, Georges Serrat, Henry Moore, Edvard Munch, Salvador Dali, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Katsushika Hokusai’s The Great Wave from 36 Views of Mount Fuji

·         Literature – James Joyce’s Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man, August Strinberg’s The Ghost Sonata, William Faulkner, Matsuo Bashô’s Narrow Road To The Deep North

 


Appendix 3.1  (Continued)

 

Narrative/Character Development Genre

Narrative/Character Development Genre

Narrative/Character Development Genre

·         Stresses a strong personal statement, an active and colourful interpretation of the theme

·         Requires participation of the viewer

·         Accents the development of character and vividness of expression

·         Demonstrates strength of emotion and communicates mental state

·         Character development establishes vivid relationships within and between groups

·         Dynamics are used to the point of distortion to create an active and colourful interpretation

·         Linear narrative (beginning, rising action, climax, denouement, and resolution) reflects internal emotions

·         Dance - James Kudelka’s In Paradisium, Danny Grossman’s Endangered Species, Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet, Menaka Thakkar’s Ganesh Nartanum, Homage To Tagore, Zab Maboungou’s Reverdance

·         In East Indian and Chinese Dance

·         See also the works of Mary Wigman, Martha Graham, Margie Gillis, Vivine Scarlett, Rina Singha

·         Music – Igor Stravinsky, Guiseppe Verdi, Giacamo Puccini, Vaughan Williams, Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet, Hector Berlioz, Indian Ragas, United Kulture

·         Architecture – Frank Lloyd Wright, Guggenheim in Spain, Kiyonori Kikutake, Civic Centre in Japan

·         Painting/sculpture – Eugene Delacroix, Theodore Gericault, Australian Aboriginal’s E-ray figure of a Kangaroo, Vincent Van Gogh’s The Potato Eaters, Edvard Munch’s The Cry, Salvador Dali’s Sacrament of the Last Supper, Ontario Petroglyphys

·         Literature – Literature – Melodrama – Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie, Murder In The Cathedra, Garcia Lorca’s Blood Wedding

 


Appendix 3.2

Genre Test

Name: _____________________

 

Watch the videos.

 

1.   In the space provided, identify the predominant genre of each video and explain in paragraph form.

 

 

(3) Video #1                Genre: __________

Using the knowledge explored in class, support your reasons, giving 2 specific examples for identifying video #1 as the genre chosen.

 

 

(3) Video #2                Genre: __________

Using the knowledge explored in class, support your reasons, giving 2 specific examples for identifying video #2 as the genre chosen.

 

 

(3) Video #3                Genre: __________

Using the knowledge explored in class, support your reasons, giving 2 specific examples for identifying video #3 as the genre chosen.

 

 

2.   Keeping in mind that all three genres may be represented in a work of art, choose one of the videos and discuss how all three genres are embodied in the dance shown.

 

(6)

 

Total Marks (15)


Appendix 3.3

Evaluation of Writing Assignment

 

The rubric will provide a framework for a teacher-developed rubric.

Example of Writing Assignment: Write a one-page essay about a dance by a Canadian choreographer explaining how the theme reflects the predominant genre. How does the use of the music, set, costumes, etc. enhance the predominant genre reflected in the work?

 

Achievement Categories and Criteria

Achievement Levels
(Check (3) the appropriate level.)

 

Level 1
Limited Success
(50-59%)

Level 2
Moderate Success
(60-69%)

Level 3
Considerable Success
(70-79%)

Level 4
Exceptional Success
(80-100%)

Knowledge/Understanding Supports ideas/opinions with high quality examples
ANV.01

 

 

 

 

 

Recognizes suitable connections between various art forms used
(e.g., music, costumes, etc.)
AN1.01

 

 

 

 

 

Thinking/Inquiry Interprets themes/ideas clearly from the work seen
ANV.05

 

 

 

 

 

Reflects aptly on a dance based on the principles of the genre
AN1.04

 

 

 

 

 

Communication
Oral Analysis

Correct spelling

Correct grammar

Correct punctuation ANV.01

 

 

 

 

 

Expresses idea clearly (organized, logical)
ANV.01

 

 

 

 

 


Appendix 3.4

Evaluation of Group Composition (Elemental)

Title of Dance: _________________________________________________

Group Members: _______________________________________________

 

Achievement Categories

Composition Criteria

Achievement Level

Level 1
Limited Success
(50-59%)

Level 2
Moderate Success
(60-69%)

Level 3
Considerable Success
(70-79%)

Level 4
Exceptional Success
(80-100%)

Application

A)  The genre of the piece is thoughtfully explored as shown by predominant themes, ritualistic patterns, and repetition. Theme/idea is enhanced by:

Music

 

 

 

 

Movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Form/Style of dance

 

 

 

 

B)  Students effectively apply good compositional principles:

Form

 

 

 

 

Repetition

 

 

 

 

Theme and variation

 

 

 

 

Air pathways

 

 

 

 

Floor Patterns

 

 

 

 

Symmetry and Asymmetry

 

 

 

 

Body shape – curved/linear

 

 

 

 

Appropriate movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Positive and negative space

 

 

 

 

Dynamics

 

 

 

 

Communication

Theme is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is represented symbolically in movement.

 

 

 

 

Performance energy/technique enhance the mood

 

 

 

 

Appendix 3.5

Evaluation of Group Composition (Abstract/Atmospheric)

Title of Dance: _________________________________________________

Group Members: _______________________________________________

Achievement Categories

Composition Criteria

Achievement Level

Level 1
Limited Success
(50-59%)

Level 2
Moderate Success
(60-69%)

Level 3
Considerable Success
(70-79%)

Level 4
Exceptional Success
(80-100%)

Application

A)  The genre of the piece is explored as shown by the relationship of dancer to another dancer and the dynamics used to set the mood. Theme/idea enhanced by:

Music

 

 

 

 

Movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Form/Style of dance

 

 

 

 

B)  Students effectively apply good compositional principles.

Relationships

 

 

 

 

Dynamics

 

 

 

 

Form (ABA, etc.)

 

 

 

 

Air pathways

 

 

 

 

Floor Patterns

 

 

 

 

Focus

 

 

 

 

Body shape – curved/linear

 

 

 

 

Positive and negative space

 

 

 

 

Appropriate movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Communication

The mood is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is represented symbolically in movement.

 

 

 

 

Performance energy/technique enhance the mood.

 

 

 

 


Appendix 3.6

Evaluation of Group Composition (Narrative/Character Development)

Title of Dance: _________________________________________________

Group Members: _______________________________________________

Achievement Categories

Composition Criteria

Level 1 Limited Success
(50-59%)

Level 2 Moderate Success
(60-69%)

Level 3 Considerable Success
(70-79%)

Level 4 Exceptional Success
(80-100%)

Application

A.  The genre of the piece is thoughtfully explored as shown by the use of colouration and narrative form as a reflection of internal emotion. Theme/idea enhanced by:

Music

 

 

 

 

Movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Form/Style of dance

 

 

 

 

B.  Students effectively apply good compositional principles.

Relationships

 

 

 

 

Dynamics

 

 

 

 

Form (ABA, etc.)

 

 

 

 

Air pathways

 

 

 

 

Floor Patterns

 

 

 

 

Focus

 

 

 

 

Body shape – curved/linear

 

 

 

 

Positive and negative space

 

 

 

 

Appropriate movement vocabulary

 

 

 

 

Relationships

 

 

 

 

Communication

The narrative/ character is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is communicated

 

 

 

 

The genre is represented symbolically in movement.

 

 

 

 

Performance energy/technique enhance the story/ characterization.

 

 

 

 

Appendix 3.7

Supplementary Resources

 

Note: Teachers are encouraged to ask students (and their parents) to contribute examples of Dance, Music, Architecture, Visual Arts and Literature from their own cultures.

 

Visual Arts Books

 

Clay, J. Modern Art 1890–1918. New York: Vendome Press, 1978. ISBN 0-67-48267-6

Duval, P. Canadian Impressions. Toronto: McClelland & Stewart Inc., 1990.
ISBN 0-7710-2964-0

Hartt, F. ART: A History of Painting, Sculpture, Architecture. Volume 1. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall Inc., 1976. ISBN 0-13-046953-X

Kellor, H. The Great Book of French Impressionism. Amsterdam: Royal Smeets Offset BV, Weert, 1982. ISBN 0-517-37459-9

Kendal R. Monet by Himself. London: Macdonald & Co. (Publishers) Ltd., 1989.
ISBN 0-356-17595-2

Laurent, Monique Rodin. London: Barrie & Jenkins, 1990. ISBN 0-7126-2059-1

Murray, J. The Best Contemporary Canadian Art. Edmonton: Hurtig Publishers, 1987.
ISBN 0-88830-318-1

Raeburn, M. An Outline of World Architecture. London: Octopus Books Limited, 1973.
ISBN 0-7064-02561

Roberts, N. Impressionism and European Modernism, The Sirak Collection, Columbus Museum of Art. Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1991. ISBN 0-295-97133-9

Henri Matisse: Paintings and Sculptures in Soviet Museums. Leningrad: Aurora Art Publishers, 1978.

 

 

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