1. Every dancer uses three elements: Space Time Force

2. Let’s watch Bi-Okoto Drum and Dance Theater performing a West African Welcome Dance. Go to www.ket.orgwww.ket.org Click on Education, then on Encyclomedia, then on Teacher’s Domain. (You will need to register if you don’t already have an account) Click on Art Click on Dance African/African-American Culture: E Sin Mi D’Africa

3. Elements of Dance: Shape Did you notice that the dancers began the dance with their arms open to welcome the audience? The shapes that dancers make with their bodies are one way shape is used in dance.

4. Another way shape is used is in the shapes all the dancers make together, like lines or circles. Did you see any of this kind of shape? Shape also has to do with the levels (low, medium, or high) of the dance. Did the dancers stay at the same level or did they change?

5. Tempo and rhythm are important in African dance. What did you notice about the tempo of this dance? Was it fast or slow or did it change? Did you notice that in some parts of the dance the dancers interpreted the rhythm of the drums with their upper bodies and arms?

6. Force How would you describe the force (or energy) of this dance? Was it graceful and flowing? Was it strong and contained?

7. Purpose: Why People Dance Sometimes people dance for fun or exercise. This is called recreational dance. Sometimes dancers perform to express themselves. This is called artistic expression. When a dance is performed for a special event, it is a ceremonial dance. What do you think is the purpose of the Welcome Dance?

8. This Welcome Dance comes from West Africa. Africa is a continent with 55 countries. West Africa is a region of Africa in the northwest part of the continent.

9. Culture and Dance Every culture has traditions that are passed from one generation to the next. Dance and music are important in West African cultures, so there are many traditional dances. This dance is used to welcome visitors. Does your family have special ways to welcome visitors? Maybe you have a special meal. What are other traditions in your family or community?