Contextualization

Introduction

In the field of Physical Education, ballroom dance is a topic that arouses great interest. Present in our history and culture, it stands out both for its artistic richness and its capacity to promote social interaction and physical activity. Studying ballroom dance is a way of developing our rhythmic sense, our motor coordination, our bodily expression, and our knowledge about different cultures.

Of European origin, ballroom dance encompasses a variety of styles that have evolved over time and geography. In this activity, we will focus on the most traditional rhythms, such as samba, tango, forró, bolero, and waltz. Each of these rhythms has a unique character, with specific steps, expressions, and rhythms, which makes ballroom dance a very diverse activity.

In addition to the artistic scope, ballroom dance is also a sports practice. All over the world, there are ballroom dance competitions that bring together professional and amateur dancers. In addition, it is a practice that promotes physical activity, contributing to maintaining the health of the body and mind.

Contextualization

Ballroom dance is one of the oldest forms of human expression. Since the earliest times, cultures around the world have used dance as a form of celebration, of rituals, and of expressing feelings. The appreciation of these traditions is of great importance for the preservation of our culture and identity.

Furthermore, the practice of ballroom dance is an excellent way of exercising the body and mind. Rhythm, choreography, bodily expression, and interaction with the partner are all elements that contribute to the development of abilities such as motor coordination, rhythm, memory, creativity, teamwork, and self-confidence. In addition, ballroom dance stimulates social contact, being a very pleasurable and fun activity.

For the study of the theme, I suggest the following resources:

1. History of Ballroom Dance - To understand the origin and evolution of ballroom dance.
2. The different rhythms of ballroom dance - To learn about the different rhythms that make up ballroom dance and their characteristics.
3. Basic steps of ballroom dance - A playlist on YouTube with explanatory videos about the basic steps of each rhythm.
4. Benefits of ballroom dance - To understand how ballroom dance contributes to physical and mental health.

Practical Activity

Title of the Activity

"Let's Dance!: An Introduction to Ballroom Dance"

Objective of the Project

The students must develop and present a choreography of a ballroom dance chosen from the suggested rhythms (samba, tango, forró, bolero, and waltz). The objective is that, at the end of this project, the students will be able to understand and appreciate the cultural diversity present in ballroom dances, perceive the importance of bodily expression and group work for the execution of a choreography, as well as be able to discuss stereotypes and prejudices related to ballroom dances.

Detailed Description of the Project

Form groups of 3 to 5 students. Each group must:

1. Choose one of the suggested ballroom dance rhythms.
2. Research the history, characteristics, and basic movements of this rhythm.
3. Create a choreography of 3 to 5 minutes for this rhythm.
4. Present the choreography to the class, explaining the choice of rhythm, its history and characteristics, and the basic movements used.

Necessary Materials

• Internet connection for research
• Music playback equipment
• Adequate space for practicing dance

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity

1. With your group, choose one of the suggested ballroom dance rhythms.
2. Research the history, characteristics, and basic movements of the chosen rhythm. Use the links suggested in the Introduction to help with this step.
3. After understanding the fundamentals of the chosen dance, start developing the choreography. Remember to include basic movements and adapt the choreography to the group's skill level.
4. Rehearse the choreography several times until you feel comfortable with it.
5. Prepare a brief presentation to explain the choice of rhythm, talk about its history and characteristics, and demonstrate the basic movements used in the choreography.
6. On the scheduled day, present the choreography and the presentation to the class.

After completing the practical activity, each group must produce a report containing the following sections:

• Introduction: Description of the theme, its relevance, application in the real world, and the objective of this project.

• Development: Detailed explanation of the choreography creation process, including the choice of rhythm, the research carried out, the definition of basic movements, and the rehearsal process. This section should also include a discussion on the stereotypes and prejudices identified during the project and possible ways to overcome them.

• Conclusions: Reflection on what was learned during the project, the challenges faced and overcome, the skills developed, and the importance of ballroom dance as a form of cultural and physical expression.

• Bibliography: References of the materials consulted during the research.

The report must be submitted on the date stipulated by the teacher. The project will be assessed based on the presentation of the dance, the content of the report, and the collaboration and engagement of the group throughout all stages of the project.