By Smart Moves This activity is freely available for viewing
Part of Introducing to highland dancing for young adults

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Author: Smart Moves
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Learning Basic Techniques

In this segment of the lesson, the focus is on teaching the students the fundamental steps and movements of the Highland Fling and Sword Dance. It is essential to emphasize the significance of proper posture and footwork in executing these dances with precision and grace.

Learning Basic Techniques

Welcome to the world of Highland dancing! In this worksheet, we will focus on learning some fundamental techniques to help you get started on your Highland dancing journey.

Examples:

  • Example 1: Practice the Highland Fling step with a slow tempo music track.
  • Example 2: Perform the Sword Dance footwork sequence without any props.
  • Example 3: Learn the Pas de Basque step and practice transitioning smoothly between it and other basic steps.
  • Example 4: Incorporate arm movements into the Seann Triubhas step to add flair to your performance.
  • Example 5: Challenge yourself by combining the Highland Fling and Sword Dance steps in a seamless routine.

Real World Problems:

  • Problem 1: Imagine you are performing at a Highland dance competition. How would you mentally prepare yourself before going on stage?
  • Problem 2: You have a Highland dance performance coming up, but you've been feeling nervous. What strategies can you use to calm your nerves and focus on your routine?

Answers:

Answers will vary for the examples and real-world problems. Practice and focus on improving your technique with each session!

  1. Start by standing with your feet together and arms by your sides.
  2. Take a step forward with your right foot, maintaining good posture and keeping your chest up.
  3. Bend your knees slightly as you lift your left foot off the ground and bring it up to meet your right knee in a high knee position.
  4. Extend your left leg out to the side, pointing your toes and keeping your leg straight.
  5. Bring your left foot back in and land softly on the ground with both feet together.
  6. Repeat the sequence on the other side, stepping forward with your left foot and lifting your right knee to meet it.
  7. Practice this movement slowly at first, focusing on your balance and technique.
  8. Once you feel comfortable, try to increase the speed of the movement while maintaining control and precision.
  9. Continue to practice and refine your technique, paying attention to details such as arm placement and footwork.
  10. Remember to breathe and enjoy the process of learning and mastering this basic highland dancing step.
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