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A. The definition of Stepping 1. The orgin and Evolution of Stepping 2. Stepping formed into a massive movement 3. Opinions of stepping from outside observers.

B. Influences of Stepping 1. What other already formed dances are instilled in stepping? 2. What other dances are simular to stepping ? 3. How long has stepping been exposed?

C. The Basic Elements of Stepping 1. What is done when stepping ? 2. What is used during stepping in some groups? 3. What is yelled and why ?

D. Evolution of Stepping 1. How has stepping changed from it's starting in the past to it's present presentation. 2. Past and Present Viewpoints of Stepping

Hook Grabber: When you hear the word stepping, what is the first thought that comes to mind? A bunch of unnecessary noise that makes no since right? No, stepping is much more than noise; it is a movement that has transformed over the years to fit all generations. With the help of music, acting and chants; stepping is now known as a dance of expression. Thesis: The dance known as stepping is more than stomping and clapping; it is a movement that has evolved from the depts. of the 1900’s to the present time of two thousand. Essential Background Information: Stepping is described as a series of body percussive movements, which include but is not fully limited to stomping, clapping, snapping and patting on the body. It is mostly known as a dance that makes a lot of noise and which most people find loud and annoying for no reason. Stepping is a dance that is both expressive and explosive to say the least. You can imply messages throughout the movement and get your point across completely through entertainment. Argument1: Stepping is more than a bunch of noise. Stepping is a dance form that features synchronized precise, sharp and complex rhythmical body movements, often combined with singing, chanting and verbal play. It all began in Africa. Many of the steps that are seen today are modern day versions of the dances that were done by the indigenous tribes of Africa. Since the beginning of time, to the era of slavery; and industry and up to modern day To understand stepping you have to understand the “Boot dance”. The boot dance developed in the pitch black coalmines where slaves were forced to work. Work boots were given to deal with the rocky terrain slaves were expected to work in. The workers made music with their empty cans. They also danced in their work boots during their break. The Boot Dance and Can Dance have evolved over time into what we now know as stepping. Origins of stepping are extremely complex. The stepping seen today has traces of slaves, movements of patterns of African American Dances. So stepping really shows the whole history of African American Dance. African Americas during slavery would talk and send messages and their escape plans through drumming stepping and patting on their bodies. Because of this intelligent action; Negros were later banned from drumming. “Section 36 California Negro Act 1740”. When they could no longer drum they began putting on their selves to get the same noise heard by using the drum. The noise and movement is called “Patting Chuba”. Patting Chuba and Ring shots are two slave dances that have movements that we see in stepping today. Slapping their hands together, in hand drops or against the floor; across their thighs. And they did this because they were no longer able to keep drums because they slave masters realized they were speaking through the drums, they were called the “Talking Drums” The same clapping went on in Ring Shots which were a religious dance. When people moved in a counter clockwise circle and occasionally someone went in the middle and performed to the original hand movements made by them. There is other sources besides the West African Bae; the West African dance and movements are the basis for sleeping. But certain cultural influence that has taken place since especially during the mid late 20th century such as tap dancing etc. Prior to stepping the competition was who could sing the best. They would sing sweet love songs, pledge songs, and fraternity hems. Everything has to be in a sort of military sequence (precision). You have to be in a line, be situated and know where you are going. That’s how you relate stepping to the military and their system. A lot of African American stepping in a way parallels the development in South Africa where they call it “Gun Boot Steppers”. Gun boot dance started in the Goldmind ofSouth Africa. These minors came from all different places who did not speak the same language. But in there spare time, they all created a dance by using their hands and legs. To uphold the sound and movement of stepping, it requires sensitized hand and foot movements to keep the beat and makes sounds that are rhythmic. Then build on it, with chants at an organization or your principles, what you believe in. You can act a skit to make people understand. Anything to properly get your point across to the people. There are four major event s during stepping. However they all differ by Region but “Ramon Blakely” from the mid West called them: Anafight, A Yard Show, Step show, or Party Strolls. Ana fight is basically an initiation on campus in front of many to establish your new found role in the sorority. A yard show is when new members coming at immediately to show their talents as a new member of the step team of their choice. ; Step show-competition, following roles and competing; which is a very big deal to all steppers. Lastly party strolls are basically when they steppers strut around a party and do their steps as seen in the movie “Drumline”; also compared to a country lined dance. Stepping has evolved and gotten better. Now you see lets of lights and glamour, acting and roles; in five years or so later it would be even better. Stepping looks easy while being watched but behind the scenes it is very much harder. Stepping requires you to listen to whoever is teaching you. It may also be an excellent platform to promote whatever you please. In conclusion, stepping has evolved into a new form of dance that has more meaning than most. It is a complex style of emotion. The dance known as stepping is more than stomping and clapping; it is a movement that has evolved from the depts. of the 1900’s to the present time of two thousand.