African Dance I

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

• Promptly grasp class exercises, combinations, and warm-up activities.

• Integrate foot patterns, torso work, upper body sequencing, and stylistic nuances of dances studied.

• Demonstrate connections between musical accompaniment and movement.

• Develop understanding of African vocal traditions, including call and response, harmonization, and improvisation.

• Explore qualitative aspects of movement with energy and performance presence.

• Engage in ensemble performance incorporating both dance and vocal elements.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Attendance and Participation	50%
Midterm	20%
Final Performance/Assessment	20%
Final Reflection	10%

Grading Scale

Percentage	Letter Grade
93-100	A
90-92	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 at every class meeting. The School of Dance requires an 80% participation rate to receive credit for the course.

Students are allowed two excused absences; thereafter, the course grade is lowered by one-third of a letter grade.

More than five absences results in failure of the course.

Late arrivals and early departures may count toward absences as outlined in the course policy.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

There is no required textbook. Students are required to maintain a notebook or journal for note-taking, recording feedback, and tracking progress throughout the semester.