DANCE 1217, Fall 2008 Instructor: jhon r. stronks
Jazz II A MEL 230
“The main point of these methods is to dissolve the dualistic struggle, our habitual tendency to struggle against what’s happening to us or in us. These methods instruct us to move toward difficulties rather than backing away… and by that I mean move toward, not blow past…”
Pema Chodron
Office Hours: By Appointment Class time: Mon/Wed 2:30 – 4:00pm
Email:
Jazz IIA is an Intermediate level jazz dance technique class. This course is designed for the further development of physical intelligence as defined as the ability to acquire and apply movement knowledge and skill. This course incorporates elements from historical, classical, and contemporary jazz dance techniques and styles.
Course Objectives:
1. The further development of technical proficiency
§ Physical strength
§ Cardiovascular and muscular stamina
§ Skeletal and muscular alignment, articulation, and flexibility
§ Coordination, speed of comprehension
2. The further development of Performance/Artistic skills.
§ Movement quality and expression
§ Clarity of physical intention and focus
§ Spatial awareness
§ Rhythmic/ musical awareness
3. The further development of physical intelligence defined as the ability to acquire and apply movement knowledge and skill through the integration of technical proficiency and performance skills.
Assignments:
There will be three written assignments each worth 10% for a total of 30% of your grade. These are essential to the course and not optional.
See assignment sheets for further details.
Attendance:
This is an activity class. THERE IS NO DISTINCTION BETWEEN AN EXCUSED OR AN ABSENCE. Participation is crucial in this class. Lack of participation through absences will affect your grade. We will adhere the School of Theatre & Dance “Attendance Policy” regarding your over-all grade. We will also adhere to the School of Theatre & Dance “Grade and GPA Protocol” document. If you need clarification, please ask.
NOTE: The instructor will not automatically drop a student due to lack of attendance.
MAKE UP for absence: Instructor will permit ONE makeup, in the form of a research paper due last day of classes, 5:00 p.m.: to be assigned by instructor.
THIS IS THE ONLY OPPORTUNITY FOR A MAKE UP YOU WILL HAVE THIS SEMESTER.
Grading:
Students are evaluated individually in terms of his/her progress. Progress includes the following: ability to consistently participate with enthusiasm and thoughtfulness, and improvement in the objectives listed.
30% Midterm Progress Exam/Practicum
30% Final Progress Exam/Practicum
10% Assignment #1
10% Assignment #2
10% Assignment #3
10% Discussion and Class Participation (from 5 quiz’s 2 points each)
Students in a degree granting plan for Dance at the University of Houston must meet the GPA protocol for the School of Theatre: Students who receive below a 2.5 grade in a major/minor/cert class will be placed on probation. Student must retake class and complete with a minimum 2.5 grade.
Dress Requirements:
Dance clothes and bare feet. Excessive layering and baggy clothes are not
Recommended. Hair must be worn away from the face. Absolutely no jewelry in this class.
Other:
Please bring water to drink. It is important to keep yourself hydrated during physical activity. Turn off your cellphones.
ALL STUDENTS REGISTERED IN DANCE CLASSES ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND THE SPRING DANCE CONCERT APRIL 25-27 . . . IF YOU DO NOT ATTEND, THERE WILL BE A 3 POINT DEDUCTION FROM YOUR OVERALL GRADE.