CUADAN411
Develop expertise in cultural dance technique


Application

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to add range and depth to cultural dance techniques.

At this level, dancers are constantly refining their technique and expression to produce performances that convey the mood and style of music through complex dance movements. They could be preparing for performances in commercial or competition settings where they would usually be performing as members of an ensemble, though some solo work could be expected.

The skills in this unit can also be applied in physical disciplines such as martial arts or fencing, where movements are closely allied to dance.

While supervision and guidance are provided in practice sessions and rehearsals, dancers are expected to display a high level of motivation and responsibility for themselves and others when it comes to applying dance technique in a live performance context.

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 prevent injuries and 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 Observe safe dance practice by performing warm-up and warm-down activities in conjunction with dance activities

1.6 Wear appropriate clothing and footwear when undertaking exercise regime and practising dance technique

2. Use practice sessions to increase level of expertise in cultural dance or movement techniques

2.1 Practise a range of techniques specific to chosen cultural dance style or physical discipline, demonstrating control and attention to detail in complex phrases

2.2 Incorporate well-developed understanding of rhythm and musicality into performances at training sessions and rehearsals

2.3 Practise executing sequences that embody alternative forms of physical coordination

2.4 Incorporate understanding of the relationship between cultural dance styles and accompanying music and other media into practice sessions

2.5 Ensure that flow and interaction with other performers are smooth and well-timed

3. Maintain expertise in cultural dance technique

3.1 Practise and refine combinations of complex movements and routines

3.2 Maintain and update knowledge of dance history and terminology

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

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

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

consistently execute dance or movement sequences that demonstrate:

confident performance skills

the discipline’s particular stylistic qualities

effective use of props

strong and precise technique in the chosen cultural dance style or physical discipline

respond to constructive feedback on own skills development

follow safe dance practices

use terminology associated with chosen dance style of movement discipline 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 physical movements and cultural dance techniques:

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 dance technique associated with chosen dance style

describe:

philosophical principles of the relevant discipline

history and cultural context of the chosen dance style or physical discipline.


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 cultural dance history and terminology

Oral communication

1.1, 1.3, 3.3

Obtains information by listening and questioning

Navigate the world of work

1.5, 1.6, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4

Follows accepted industry practices in relation to safe dance practices and injury-prevention strategies

Takes responsibility for own professional development

Interact with others

1.1, 1.3, 2.2, 2.5, 3.3

Works collaboratively to develop and improve dance techniques

Communicates the mood or style of dances to audiences

Get the work done

1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1

Adopts a methodical, disciplined and positive approach to physical conditioning program, dance classes and evaluation of own skill development

Works creatively with music and dance

Takes steps to minimise risk of injury through appropriate physical conditioning program


Sectors

Performing arts - dance