Context

Ballroom dances, originated in the French court in the 15th century, are cultural expressions of various peoples throughout history. Among the most well-known styles are samba, forró, salsa, tango, waltz, among many others. Each dance has its own rhythm, way of moving, and style of music, reflecting the culture of the country or region from which it originated.

The importance of ballroom dance goes beyond mere entertainment. It is a vehicle for personal expression, an opportunity for learning collaboration and mutual respect, and a form of exercise that benefits both physical and mental health. Ballroom dances also play an important role in many cultures, being part of celebrations, competitions, and even rituals.

Introduction

In this project, we will explore ballroom dance through the study of its history, the technical foundations of its execution, and the critical analysis of its sociocultural aspects. The project goes beyond the discipline of Physical Education, also integrating History, as we will understand the historical context in which each dance is inserted, and Sociology, as we will discuss issues of identity, prejudice, and stereotypes related to ballroom dances.

The goal is to provide students with the opportunity to experience, enjoy, and recreate ballroom dances from various cultures, valuing diversity and developing technical and socio-emotional skills. The project will involve research, debate, dance practice, and writing a report.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: "Ballroom Steps: A Journey Through Dances Around the World"

Project Objective:

Investigate and practice different styles of ballroom dances, explore the historical and cultural context of each dance, discuss stereotypes and prejudices, and create an illustrated manual and a dance presentation that represents the diversity of these dances.

Detailed Project Description:

Students, divided into groups of 3 to 5 members, will research and practice different types of ballroom dances, with an emphasis on those that reflect the cultural diversity of peoples around the world. Each group will choose a specific ballroom dance to investigate deeply, exploring its historical and cultural context, dance technique, music, and choreography. They will also discuss possible stereotypes and prejudices associated with each dance and propose ways to overcome them.

The groups will prepare a dance presentation to demonstrate what they have learned about the chosen dance. They will also create an illustrated manual about the dance, including the history, technique, choreography, music, and critical analysis of stereotypes and prejudices, all enriched with images and illustrations.

Necessary Materials:

1. Internet access for research
2. Books and articles on ballroom dance
3. Drawing and painting materials for the illustrated manual
4. Adequate space for dance practice
5. Equipment for recording the dance presentation, such as a camera and tripod

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity:

1. Divide the class into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Each group chooses a specific ballroom dance to investigate.
3. Conduct comprehensive research on the selected dance, seeking to understand its historical and cultural context, movements, and music.
4. Discuss stereotypes and prejudices related to the chosen dance and propose strategies to overcome them.
5. Practice the chosen dance, learning the basic movements and choreography.
6. Prepare a dance presentation, which will be recorded to be presented to the class.
7. Create a detailed illustrated manual about the chosen dance, including the history, technique, choreography, music, and discussion of stereotypes and prejudices.
8. Present the illustrated manual to the class.
9. Present the recording of the dance presentation.
10. Write a detailed report on the project, with sections on introduction, development, conclusions, and bibliography.

Project Deliverables:

1. Illustrated manual with historical information, techniques, choreography, music, and critical analysis of stereotypes and prejudices related to the chosen dance.
2. Recorded dance presentation.
3. Project report, which should discuss the entire research process, practical learning of the dance, creation of the manual and presentation, and analysis of the findings. The report should be divided into four main sections: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Bibliography. In the Introduction, students will contextualize the project, stating its importance and objectives. In the Development, they will detail the activities carried out, the methodology used, and present the results obtained. In the Conclusions, they should reflect on the learnings and conclusions drawn from the project. In the Bibliography, they should list all sources of information used for research and project execution.