Course Description
Introduction to the style and rhythmic structures of jazz dance with an emphasis on technique specific to musical theatre performance and expression. Prerequisite: Dance major or Drama Musical Theatre Concentration major or permission of instructor; Note: May be repeated for credit.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to grasp and retain jazz dance sequences, exercises, and concepts.
- Demonstrate safe dynamic alignment, bodily awareness, movement initiation, weight shifts, movement qualities, and spatial awareness in jazz dance.
- Demonstrate an understanding of polyrhythm, polycentrism, syncopation, and movement in different rhythms and time signatures.
- Understand the historical, social, and cultural influences on jazz dance.
- Improvise and perform jazz dance movement with confidence, commitment, and artistry.
- Create or adapt choreographic works inspired by jazz dance styles and concepts.
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Attendance | 100 points |
| Participation | 10 points |
| Jazz History Assignment | 10 points |
| Demonstrations & Reflections | 70 points |
| Concert Viewing Reflection | 10 points |
| Total | 200 points |
Grading Scale
| Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
| 94–100 | A |
| 90–93 | A- |
| 87–89 | B+ |
| 83–86 | B |
| 80–82 | B- |
| 77–79 | C+ |
| 73–76 | C |
| 70–72 | C- |
| 67–69 | D+ |
| 63–66 | D |
| 60–62 | D- |
| Below 60 | F |
Attendance/Participation:
Attendance and active participation are expected. The School of Dance requires an 80% participation rate to receive credit for the course.
Students are allowed two excused absences.
Students who accrue more than five absences will automatically fail the course.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
No course materials are required.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.