Question 1: Describe three key movements or features that distinguish ballet from other dance styles.

Answer: Ballet features precise, graceful movements with a focus on turnout, high extensions, and controlled pirouettes. It also emphasizes formal posture and pointed toes.

Question 2: Explain how jazz dance differs from contemporary dance in terms of style and technique.

Answer: Jazz dance is energetic, rhythmic, and often performed with sharp, isolated movements and a strong sense of improvisation. Contemporary dance emphasizes fluidity, floor work, and emotional expression, often incorporating improvisation and natural movement.

Question 3: Identify two characteristics typical of hip-hop dance and explain their importance.

Answer: Hip-hop often includes isolations and improvisation, emphasizing individual style and rhythm. These features allow dancers to showcase personality and adapt movements creatively within the genre.

Question 4: Sketch a simple pose or movement sequence that could be used in a traditional Indian classical dance, such as Bharatanatyam.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a dancer with bent knees, one arm extended with fingers in a specific mudra, and the other arm positioned close to the body, with a focus on symmetrical and precise hand gestures, along with a poised stance.

Question 5: List two ways that street dance styles like breakdancing have influenced mainstream dance.

Answer: Street dance styles like breakdancing have influenced mainstream dance through the integration of acrobatic moves and improvisation, and by inspiring choreography in music videos and commercial performances.

Question 6: Describe the typical costume and footwear used in tap dance and explain how they contribute to the style.

Answer: Tap dancers wear fitted clothing that allows freedom of movement and special tap shoes with metal plates on the soles. These shoes produce distinctive sounds, emphasizing rhythm and musicality.

Question 7: Choose one dance style studied and explain its historical or cultural significance.

Answer: For example, ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts and was developed further in France and Russia, becoming a symbol of classical art and discipline that reflects European cultural history.

Question 8: Describe how contemporary dance incorporates elements from other dance styles and modern movement ideas.

Answer: Contemporary dance blends techniques from ballet, jazz, and modern dance, often using floor work, improvisation, and expressive movements to communicate personal or emotional themes.

Question 9: Sketch a short sequence of two movements typical in salsa dancing.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a dancer stepping forward with one foot, then shifting weight back, with hips moving rhythmically, and arms positioned to suggest partner connection or styling.

Question 10: Reflect on why it is important to appreciate different dance styles and how this can influence your own dance practice.

Answer: Appreciating different dance styles broadens understanding of movement, cultural diversity, and techniques, inspiring creativity and versatility in your own dance practice, and fostering respect for different traditions.