DNCE 310: Study in Somatics (PPD)
Prerequisites: DNCE major with junior or senior standing
Credit Hours: (3) Six hours technique
Covers fundamental theoretical and movement principles in somatic therapies and techniques.
Strengthens and stretches the total body, emphasizing control from the core center.
Students learn theoretical and practical knowledge to protect the body in all movement
forms by developing a strong link between the physical and the mental aspects of movement.
Note(s): May be taken for a total of six credit hours.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
1) Pilates Movement Method
a) Theoretical Principles
b) Pilates Fundamentals
c) Pilates Mat Floor work
2) Anatomy Fundamentals for Dancers
a) Terminology
b) Alignment and Postural Issues
c) Strengthening and Lengthening Techniques for specific muscle groups
3) Yoga
a) Theoretical Principles of Hatha Yoga
b) Theoretical Practice
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The course includes material presented by instructor鈥檚 demonstration and explanation
of exercises, followed by students鈥� practice of exercises. It also includes assignments,
discussion, lecture, papers, and exams. It may include guest speakers with expertise
in other somatic areas.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
At the conclusion of this course students will be able to:
1) Explain theories of specific somatic therapies orally and/or in writing
2) Apply principles of these somatic therapies to traditional dance vocabulary and
to daily movement experience through demonstration and verbal explanation
3) Demonstrate selected somatic techniques and exercises.
Assessment Measures
Daily observation of students鈥� performance during class
1) Mid-term and Final examinations
2) Class Discussion
3) Weekly Journal
4) Attendance
Other Course Information
None
Approval and Subsequent Reviews
Date Action Reviewed by
New Course February, 2009
March 01, 2021