Moving safely

A focus on the application and understanding of safe dance practice used in dance performance

Student dance resource developed by The Arts Unit

Years 11 and 12 dance

What will I learn?

You will:

identify and describe body skills and dance terminology
explain the function of safe dance practice
analyse the muscular and skeletal system
evaluate your own body's limitations and capabilities.

Photo credit: Anna Warr

Before you begin

Welcome to Moving safely!

You will need:

a clear space to dance safely
access to Google Slides or MS PowerPoint
pen and paper for notes.

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:

You have been given approval from your parent/caregiver prior

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

The 12 images in this image carousel are stimuli for all questions in the tasks below.

Use the images to reflect on and generate your responses.

Confirm with your teacher how they would like you to submit work.

2. Analysis

Create a document for your responses using a program like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides. You can share this document with your teacher as directed.

Complete the following tasks for each image:

Identify the body skill in each image and describe how the movement is performed using descriptive dance terminology.
Explain the function of safe dance practice in each of the movements.
Try performing the body skill physically to assist you in your explanation. Think about the preparation and landing from the skill.
Analyse the relationship between the muscular and skeletal system in performing these body skills.
Evaluate your own body's limitations and capabilities in relation to the body skills. What would you need to consider when performing these movements yourself?