CUADAN306
Increase depth of ballet dance technique


Application

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to consolidate basic ballet dance technique to achieve a greater depth of expression in performances.

This unit applies to dancers who are pursuing a career where ballet dancing skills are required. They could be preparing for performances in commercial or community settings where they would usually be performing as members of an ensemble.

At this level work is normally supervised, though some autonomy and judgement can be expected within established parameters.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Elements

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance Criteria

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Maintain a physical conditioning program

1.1 In consultation with relevant personnel, identify a range of techniques to improve stamina, strength and flexibility

1.2 Set realistic physical conditioning goals aimed at improving own dance technique

1.3 Identify risk factors that may inhibit the achievement of goals and seek professional advice as required

1.4 Take fatigue and personal limitations into account when undertaking physical conditioning program

1.5 Perform warm-up and warm-down activities in conjunction with dance activities

1.6 Ensure that clothing and footwear are appropriate for exercise regime and practising dance technique

2. Build on basic ballet dance technique

2.1 Use appropriate balance, posture and breathing techniques to develop a repertoire of fluid ballet positions and movements at the barre

2.2 In centre space, perform patterns and movement sequences in time with differing rhythm

2.3 Practise facial expressions and other techniques required to perform simple mimes

2.4 Perform a range of exercises to strengthen capacity for pointe work as required

2.5 Demonstrate a sense of spatial awareness in dance movements

2.6 Perform ballet dance techniques with increasing expertise, in a learning environment

2.7 Incorporate musicality, rhythm and correct timing into performances

2.8 Coordinate position and movement between self and other dancers

3. Maintain expertise in ballet dance technique

3.1 Practise executing movements with precision and speed

3.2 Maintain and update knowledge of ballet history and dance terminology

3.3 Use feedback from others to identify and develop ways to improve own ballet dance performance skills

3.4 Regularly view performances by industry practitioners as a way of sourcing new ideas, identifying trends, and maintaining motivation

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

improve ballet dance technique over a six to twelve-month period

perform a range of basic ballet dance techniques in a learning environment

respond to constructive feedback on own performance

follow safe dance practices

use ballet dance terminology correctly.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements the individual must:

explain how the following principles relate to ballet positions and movements:

relationship with gravity

spatial awareness

successional movement

use of breath

folding

extending

rotating

shifting weight

explain how the following apply in the context of safe dance practice and injury prevention:

articulation of the spine

engagement of the feet

bases of support, including feet, legs, hands, arms and torso

range of motion of the joints

differentiation of the legs and pelvis

healthy nutrition and diet

explain and demonstrate how the musical elements of time signatures, beat, tempo and syncopation apply to ballet dance technique

describe key periods and prominent dancers in the history of ballet.


Assessment Conditions

Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to appropriate dance performance areas or spaces with suitable flooring.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Learning

1.1, 3.3, 3.4

Seeks the views and opinions of others to develop own understanding

Observes industry practitioners, sources new ideas and identifies trends, and applies to own techniques

Reading

3.2

Obtains information from written sources about ballet dance history and terminology

Oral communication

1.1, 1.3, 3.2, 3.3

Obtains information by listening and questioning

Navigate the world of work

1.5, 1.6, 3.2

Follows accepted industry practices in relation to safe dance practices

Develops and maintains knowledge relevant to role

Interact with others

1.1, 1.3, 2.8, 3.2, 3.3

Discusses dance technique and physical conditioning issues with colleagues and teachers

Builds rapport with fellow dancers

Get the work done

1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 3.4

Understands own physical limitations and applies to planning and implementation of physical conditioning program

Adopts a methodical, disciplined and positive approach to dance classes

Dances with strong stage presence and confidence

Identifies and applies a range of responses to music and rhythm through dance movements

Recognises opportunities to develop and apply new approaches to performing ballet


Sectors

Performing arts – dance