This blog entry is written specifically for the ISTD Associate Examination for Country Western Line Dances.
Now we know there is an 'own choice' to dance.
However, before dancing it, candidate is expected to teach this dance. It is because the candidate needs to demonstrate his/her teaching techniques.
For example, if my own choice is Smokey Places, in the first 2 eights, I have to extract the figures out like this:
First, explain the time signature (4/4) and the steps, i.e. there steps over 4 beats.
Then, start the damce with the teaching of the Rumba Box in QQS rhythm, as explain that the Rumba Box is actually drawing a box or a square on the floor.
Right after the Rumba Box in QQS QQS, another QQS figure is side Chasse.
After it would be a Grapevine begin with RF cross over. Technically it is an extended vine as this is a 4-beat figure instead of the standard Grapevine which is 3-beat figure.
Sometimes, there would be particular figures or actions that require more attention so that to your class can do the correct poise and posture. This is important because proper balance can effectively prevent injuries.
For example, in the 3rd and 4th eights of Smokey Places, there are a number of cross/step and tap, turn and tap.
If weight distribution is not correct, it is impossible to tap the destinated foot after a cross or a tap. Or if turning technique is not applied after the turn, your student may get disoriented.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Follow me for more updates on: