Digital @ The Arts Unit Creative Classes

Expressing movement

Evaluating performance quality

Student dance resource developed by The Arts Unit

Years 11 and 12 dance

What will I learn?

This resource focuses on understanding performance quality, interpretation and style in dance performance.

You will:

  • evaluate the control/variation of dynamics

  • describe quality of line

  • analyse the use of projection

  • classify the relationship between kinaesthetic awareness and safe dance practice.

Before you begin

You'll need:

  • document and slide presentation software

  • open space to dance safely.

Safety tips for online movement classes if you wish to participate

When you decide to take part in these activities you agree to the following:

  1. You have been given approval from your parent/caregiver prior

  1. You will clear a spot big enough to give you space to move around. Be sure there are no coffee tables, plants or chairs in the way.

  1. Be aware of any pets or small humans that may sneak into your dance space.

  1. Check the height of ceiling fans and light fittings so the area is clear as you reach above your head.

  1. You will wear comfortable clothing that allows a full range of movement.

  1. This will include appropriate footwear:

  • Sneakers, socks, ballet slippers, jazz shoes or bare feet.

  • You may have to adjust based on the flooring you are dancing on.

  • Bare feet may be better than ballet slippers on a slippery floor. Socks may be better on carpet.

  1. Be careful if you are on a rug on a slippery floor.

If you have an injury or a medical condition please follow the advice of your health professional. It is suggested you view the exercises beforehand and adjust according to your limitations. Ask your parent/caregiver if you are unsure.

Please stay safe, listen carefully to all the instructions.

If you study dance please think about your knowledge of safe dance practice as you execute the instructions.

Stimulus – Moving On

The video of the Major Study Performance work 'Moving On' by Joanne Hwang from Newtown High School of the Performing Arts is the stimulus for all activities.

Record your findings from each activity in a document or slide presentation and send to your teacher.

  1. Evaluate

Watch the video, paying particular attention to the dancer’s demonstration of performance quality.

Evaluate the dancer’s ability to control and vary the dynamics in the piece. What role do strength and coordination play in this?

2. Describe

Refer to this excerpt from the video.

Describe the quality of line using appropriate dance terminology and outline the relationship between the quality of line and the alignment of the body.

3. Analyse

Watch the video, paying particular attention to the dancer’s use of projection.

Analyse how the dancer uses projection to further enhance her interpretation of the work.

4. Classify

Classify the relationship between kinaesthetic awareness and safe dance practice in the dancer’s performance of 'Moving On'.

Congratulations! You have finished this Digital @ The Arts Unit Creative Class!

You might like to explore more of our Digital @ The Arts Unit Creative Classes:






A conversation with the dancers - Year 11 and 12 dance.
Expressing movement - Year 11 and 12 dance
Communicating ideas through dance - Year 11 and 12 dance.
Moving safely - Year 11 and 12 dance

Third-party content attributions

  • Callback 2018, Moving On, images 1-4, photographer: Anna Warr.