DANC 261: Intermediate Modern Dance I

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 1
Total Contact Hours: 36
Lecture Hours : 18
Lab Hours: 18
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 36
Prerequisite: DANC 161 or Audition.
Strongly Recommended: DANC 162.
District General Education: E1. Dance Activity
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

A continuing study of modern dance with more in-depth instruction in the technique and creative elements of the dance form, including individual and group in-class projects. 18 lecture hours, 18 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • demonstrate a kinesthetic perception of line, movement, rhythm and coordination, thereby using the body as an instrument of expression
  • demonstrate an expanded understanding of improvisation techniques for self-expression and beginning choreographic work
  • demonstrate ability in floor work and rebound, evaluation and sustained movements
  • demonstrate a greater understanding of the versatility and inventiveness of modern dance

Major Course Content

  1. Orientation - Review of the History of Modern Dance
    1. More modern trends
  2. Review of Modern Dance Movement Elements
    1. Time concepts
    2. Space components
    3. Force/energy
    4. Improvisation
  3. Intermediate Understanding and Awareness of the Body's Structure
    1. Alignment/placement
    2. Joint articulation
    3. Tension/relaxation
    4. Flexibility
    5. Strength
    6. Endurance
    7. Axial Movement
    8. Locomotor movement
  4. Developing Range and Freedom
    1. Standing training techniques
    2. Floor-lying exercises
      1. Spine lengthening
      2. Hip and foot joint awareness
    3. Sitting exercises
      1. Concentration on upper body awareness
    4. Center-floor
      1. Memory
      2. Stamina
      3. Creativity
    5. Movement through space
      1. Locomotor patterns
      2. Steps
    6. Movement coordinated with musical elements
      1. Tempo
      2. Rhythm
      3. Contrast

Lab Content

  1. Practice Intermediate Progressive Exercises
    1. Warm-up technique in practicum
    2. Stretching in practicum
    3. Floor Rehearsal of Intermediate Modern positions for balance, coordination
    4. Low-impact aerobic exercises for toning, building stamina
  2. Execution of Dance Forms
    1. Intermediate Dance combinations in practicum
    2. Sustained movements in practicum
    3. Intermediate Jumps and turns in practicum

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Dance Magazine Histories of modern dance as an art form Biographies of famous modern dance dancers or choreographers

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Four page paper about modern dance history, evolution of modern dance, biographies of famous modern dance dancers or choreographers.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Practice in class Lab exercises

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab, Online Education Lecture, Online Education Lab