The 3 Elements of Dance

Space the canvas

Movement exists in space. There is the immediate space which surrounds the body in all directions known as the kinesphere; and there is the space beyond which becomes outer- space. Use of space includes:

Shape body design in space Level high, middle, low Direction forward, backwards, sideways Place on the spot, through space Focus direction of gaze Pathway curved, straight, zig-zag, diagonal

Time the organization

Movement and music are measured through time. Time shows the frame in which the body must accomplish a sequence of actions. Use of time involves:

Beat underlying pulse Tempo fast or slow speed Duration long or short notes Rhythm patterns and combinations of these elements

Energy/Force the dynamics

All movement can be altered by changes in force. Energy and motion are affected by body weight and the dancer’s relationship to gravity. Force is shown through qualities of movement:

Sharp strong tight brisk smooth light Tight loose gradual flowing bound

Vibratory (quiver, shake, shimmy) Sustained (uninterrupted release of energy in a smooth motion) Swing (Pendular, a cyclic combination of suspension and collapse) Collapse (Heaviness, giving into gravity) Percussive (Accent: sharp and strong: clear starts and stops) Suspend (Float; lightness, denial of gravity) Project Dance Runway

The 3 Elements of Dance Assignment

Project Runway and Dance are both outlets of creative expression, which is why we like them both so much. In this project you will get a chance to explain and use your basic knowledge of dance and the three elements to choreograph a 30 second dance study

Students will form groups and create a 30 second dance using the steps we have worked on across the floor in our basics unit and will focus on one of the 3 elements of dance. They must take these steps and either manipulate the space, time, or energy.

Dance must incorporate 1 prop in their dance from the prop corner to help emphasize showing group element choice.

If you choose to add music it must be done AFTER the first check point. This will ensure that the emphasis is on the movement/dance rather than just the music.

Your project can be done alone or in small groups up to 4 people. All group members must equally participate to work on the physical dance as well as being prepared to help defend/explain the element that is being explored. If working with a partner or group, you must create a 1 paragraph contract stating what you will be responsible for. Please note, you will be held responsible for the entire project, not just what you agreed upon. (so please choose groups and partners wisely)

After you perform your dance, please be prepared for a quick explanation/discussion of the element shown in your choreography.

There will be two check points worth 10 points each in order to reflect and check assignment progress Rubric / Timeline / Grade

Project “Dance” Runway Rubric – 100 points

Names in group:

Group Contract Due: 10 points ______

Check point 1 Due: 10 points ______

Check point 2 Due: 10 points ______

Final Dance Due Date:

Clear focus on Space, Time, or Energy 20 points ______With explanation after performance

30 seconds long 10 points ______

Use of 3 basic dance steps 10 points ______

Use of Prop 10 points ______

Overall Creativity 20 points ______

Total ______

Dance Due Date:______