Learning Objective 6.0 To evaluate ice dancing using the ISU judging system. Module 6.0 Ice Dancing Outline 6.1 Judging Ice Dancing 6.2 Compulsory Dance 6.2.1 Marking Compulsory Dance by Section and Scale of Values 6.2.2 Grades of Execution (GOEs) 6.2.3 Program Components Evaluation for Compulsory Dance 6.2.4 Falls in the Compulsory Dance 6.3 Original Dance and Free Dance 6.3.1 Levels of Difficulty and Scale of Value 6.3.2 Standards for the Well-Balanced Original Dance and Free Dance Programs 6.3.2.1 Senior Original Dance and Free Dance 6.3.2.2 Junior Original Dance and Free Dance 6.3.2.3 Novice Free Dance 6.3.2.4 General Remarks on Required Elements and Technical Violations/Errors 6.3.2 The Technical Evaluation Grades of Execution (GOEs) 6.3.3 Program Components Evaluation for Original Dance and Free Dance 6.3.4 Program Component Factors 6.4 Summary Appendices 6.01 Scale of Values (SOV) of Required Sections and Elements Ice Dancing 6.02 Marking Guide for Program Components Compulsory Dance 6.03 Levels of Difficulty Original Dance and Free Dance 6.04 Program Components Reductions Original Dance and Free Dance 6.05 Marking Guide for Program Components Original Dance and Free Dance 6.1 Judging Ice Dancing Ice dancing is comprised of three segments for the junior and senior levels: compulsory dance, original dance and free dance. The novice ice dance event is comprised of the compulsory dance event and the free dance. For each segment, a judge assigns technical marks (GOEs) and program components marks. In a paper-only environment, GOE marks are recorded on a sheet immediately after each element is skated. In a touch-screen environment, the GOEs are entered on the judges screens immediately after each technical element is executed. In both environments the program components marks are entered at the conclusion of each skating performance. 6.2 Compulsory Dance The judges evaluate the quality of execution of the compulsory dance and score each section of the dance by the Grade of Execution (GOE), which helps determine the technical score. In addition to the technical score, the judges evaluate the whole performance and assign marks to the four program components of compulsory dance. 6.2.1 Marking Compulsory Dance by Section and Scale of Values For the purpose of marking, the pattern of each compulsory dance is divided into a certain number of sections. Judges assign GOE marks to each section of the compulsory dance. The number of sections of the particular dance depends on its length (number of steps) and number of sequences in the dance. The required sections of each compulsory dance and the Scale of Values Table of the section of the compulsory dances is published and updated annually as the dances change each year. The Scale of Values Table contains base values for all the sections of the compulsory dances and adjustments for the quality of their execution as represented by the panel s trimmed mean GOE. The judge does not determine the base values. They are pre-determined by a group of experts in skating. The base values are measured in points and increase with the difficulty of the sections. The difficulty of the sections in compulsory dance is determined by the difficulty of the steps and movements included 6-1
in the section. The Scale of Values for each required section of the compulsory dances are increased for each sequence of the dance. This gives additional credit to the couples able to control the execution of the dance through the subsequent sequences. For informational purposes, the scale of values Table is contained in Appendix 6.01. 6.2.2 Grades of Execution (GOEs) The judge assigns a GOE for each section of the compulsory dance. The marks for each section are assessed using the range of the seven grades of execution scale: -3, -2, -1, 0, +1, +2, +3, depending on the quality of the execution for each section. Judges assess the accuracy of steps, holds and correctness of pattern in each section of the dance, with attention to those steps featured in the lists of specific deductions for each dance. Table 6.1 presents these performance criteria for compulsory dance. 6-2
Table 6.1 Marking Guide for Grade of Execution (GOE) Compulsory Dance 6-3
6-4
6.2.3 Program Components Evaluation for Compulsory Dance In addition to the Technical Score (GOE), each judge evaluates the couple s whole performance which is divided into four program components in compulsory dance. The four components are: Skating Skills (SS), Performance/Execution (PE), Interpretation (IN) and Timing (TI). Program components are evaluated by judges after completion of the dance on a scale from 0.25 to 10.00 with increments of 0.25 points given by the judges corresponding to the following descriptions and range: 0.25... not present 1..... very poor 2..... poor 3..... weak 4..... fair 5..... average 6..... above average 7..... good 8..... very good 9..... superior 10.... outstanding Increments are used for evaluation of performances containing some features of one degree and some of the next degree. Skating Skills (SS) are defined as the method used by the couple to perform dance steps and movements over the ice surface and the efficiency of their movement in relation to speed, flow and quality of edge. The following criteria are used to evaluate SS: Overall skating quality Depth and quality of edges and ice coverage Flow and glide Speed and power Cleanness and sureness of steps Balance of technique and skating ability of partners Ice coverage Performance/Execution (PE) is defined as the ability of the partners to demonstrate unison, body alignment, carriage, style and balance of performance while executing compulsory dances in order to exhibit a pleasing appearance through coordinated movement, body awareness and projection. The following criteria are used to evaluate P/E: Unison and body alignment Distance between partners Carriage and style Balance in performance between partners Interpretation (IN) is defined as the ability of the couple to express the mood, emotions and character of the compulsory dance rhythm by using the body moves, steps and holds of the dance to reflect the structure and character of the music. The following criteria are used to evaluate IN: Expression of the character of the rhythm Relationship between partners reflecting the nature of the dance Timing (TI) is defined as the ability of the couple to skate strictly in time with the music and to reflect the rhythm patterns and prescribed beat values of a compulsory dance correctly. The following criteria are used to evaluate TI: Skating in time with the music Skating on the strong beat Skating the prescribed beat values for each step Introductory steps 6-5
The panel s trimmed mean score for each program component is then multiplied by factors which are as follows: Skating Skills (SS)............... 0.75 Performance/Execution (PE)........ 0.50 Interpretation (IN)............... 0.50 Timing (TI).................... 0.75 For informational purposes, the Compulsory Dance Marking Guide for Program Components is contained in Appendix 6.02. 6.2.4 Falls in the Compulsory Dance For compulsory dances, if a fall occurs during the introductory and/or concluding steps/movements only the technical panel makes appropriate deductions. If a fall occurs within a section of the dance, both the technical panel and the judges make appropriate deductions. 6.3 Original Dance and Free Dance The judges evaluate the quality of execution of the required elements and score each of these elements with a Grade of Execution (GOE) mark. In addition, the judges evaluate the whole performance and mark each of five program components in the original dance and free dance. The program components are: Skating Skills (SS), Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movements (TR), Performance/Execution (PE), Composition/Choreography (CH), and Interpretation/Timing (IN). See Module 4.0 for general information on calculating scores. 6.3.1 Levels of Difficulty and Scale of Values The technical panel is responsible for determining the level of difficulty of each technical element as it is skated in the original dance and the free dance programs. The assigned level of difficulty determines the base value for each element. For informational purposes, the level of difficulty criteria are contained in Appendix 6.03 and the scale of values for technical elements are contained in Appendix 6.01. 6.3.2 Standards for the Well-Balanced Original Dance and Free Dance Programs A judge evaluates the quality of each of the required elements performed by applying specific criteria to arrive at a Grade of Execution (GOE) mark for each element in the original dance and the free dance. The judge also evaluates the whole performance and assigns five separate program component scores. At each level senior, junior and novice there are a specific set of maximum required technical elements that cannot be exceeded. If they are exceeded, the technical panel assigns specific reductions in the total technical score. This is a point-based system. It is of the skater s choosing to include or exclude any technical element and the point values attached. 6.3.2.1 Senior Original Dance and Free Dance The following are the general requirements for the well-balanced senior original dance and free dance. Ice Dancing *Senior Original Dance & Free Dance Original Dance Free Dance Lifts Two different types of dance lifts, but no more Four different types of lifts, but no more Dance Spin (and Twizzles Free Dance) Step Sequences One dance spin, but no more Two step sequences: one diagonal step sequence and one midline (not touching) step sequence Option 1: Two different types of dance spins (spin and combination spin) and one set of synchronized twizzles Option 2: One dance spin (spin or combination spin) and two sets of synchronized twizzles Two different types of step sequences *Specific instructions for the required elements will be published in an ISU Communication (see ISU Communication 1318) as well as the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook. Judges, skaters and coaches are advised to remain up to date on all changes as these changes will be integrated into the United States events. 6-6
6.3.2.2 Junior Original Dance and Free Dance The following are the general requirements for the well-balanced junior original dance and free dance. Ice Dancing *Junior Original Dance & Free Dance Original Dance Free Dance Lifts Two different types of dance lifts, but no more Three different types of lifts, but no more Dance Spin One dance spin, but no more One dance spin, but no more Step Sequences Twizzles Two step sequences: one diagonal step sequence and one midline (not touching) step sequence Two different types of step sequences One set of synchronized twizzles 6.3.2.3 Novice Free Dance The following are the general requirements for the well-balanced novice free dance. Lifts Dance Spin Step Sequences Twizzles Ice Dancing **Novice Free Dance Three different types of dance lifts, but no more One dance spin, but no more One step sequence One set of synchronized twizzles 6.3.2.4 General Remarks on Required Elements and Technical Violations/Errors The following comments relate to the technical elements and violations or errors in the original and free dance programs. Dance lifts are categorized by type and time limitation. The time duration of the lift will be clocked by a time keeper. The referee shall deduct 1.0 per lift in excess of the permitted time duration from the total score. The following short lifts shall not exceed six seconds in duration: a) Stationary Lift b) Straight Line Lift c) Curve Lift d) Rotational Lift The following long lifts shall not exceed 10 seconds in duration: e) Serpentine Lift f) Reverse Rotational Lift g) Combination Lift Dance spins are categorized by two types: the dance spin and the combination spin. The rotation requirement for the dance spin is three revolutions. The combination spin requirement is three revolutions on each foot for both partners. The combination spin must have one change of foot and the change of foot is performed simultaneously. Spins performed with less than the required revolutions have required negative GOE. *Specific instructions for the required elements will be published in an ISU Communication (see ISU Communication 1318) as well as the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook. Judges, skaters and coaches are advised to remain up to date on all changes as these changes will be integrated into the United States events. **U.S. Figure Skating rules on these requirements shall apply. Please check the rulebook for restrictions and approved selections. 6-7
Combination spins and lifts are NOT permitted in the original dance, but they are permitted in the free dance. In the free dance, each element shall be marked as fulfilling a lift and a spin requirement. Step sequences are categorized by the following shapes: Circular Diagonal Midline Serpentine Step sequences may be performed with difficult characteristics in the footwork to increase the GOE by +1 for each of the following characteristics: 1. Speed maintained or acceleration during sequence 2. Skating on deep edges by both partners Synchronized twizzles may be performed with difficult characteristics to increase the GOE by +1 for each of the following characteristics: 1. Both twizzles on the same foot with change of edge between (no touchdown) 2. Exit with maintained running edge (no immediate step down) 3. Special features in the twizzles, such as hand(s) above head, free foot crossed behind All elements have required reductions for stumbles and falls during the required elements and are to be reflected in the GOE of the element. The definition of a fall is the loss of control by a skater resulting in both blades leaving the ice and/or any part of the body core, both hands, or one hand and one knee touching the ice for stabilization. The following features apply to a fall in ice dancing: A fall on a required element may be further reflected in the judges assessment of the program components and by the technical specialists assignment of the level for that element. Stumbles outside of required elements in the original dance and the free dance are reflected in the Skating Skills (SS) program component scores and may be further reflected in the judges assessment of the other program components. Other reductions in the program component scores for pattern, stop requirements, separations and music violations or errors for the original dance and free dance are detailed in Appendix 6.04. The following deductions of points are identified and taken by the referee or technical panel as indicated: Time violation** Extra elements* -1.0 for every five seconds lacking or in excess -1.0 per violation Illegal element/movements violation* -2.0 per violation Costume and prop violation** -1.0 Lifts exceeding permitted time duration** -1.0 per lift Interruptions of the program** Falls* -1.0 for 6-15 seconds of interruption -2.0 for 16-30 seconds of interruption -1.0 for every fall of one partner -2.0 for every fall by both partners 6.3.2 The Technical Evaluation Grades of Execution (GOEs) The judge assigns a GOE for each technical element in the original dance and the free dance according to specific performance criteria. Table 6.2 presents these performance criteria for every element in the original dance and the free dance. *These infractions are identified by the technical specialist and the deduction is authorized by the technical controller. **These deductions are identified and taken by the referee. 6-8
Table 6.2 Marking Guide for Grade of Execution (GOE) Original Dance and Free Dance 6-9
Table 6.2 (continued) Marking Guide for Grade of Execution (GOE) Original Dance and Free Dance 6-10
Table 6.2 (continued) Marking Guide for Grade of Execution (GOE) Original Dance and Free Dance 6-11
Table 6.2 (continued) Marking Guide for Grade of Execution (GOE) Original Dance and Free Dance 6-12
The following scoring steps are utilized by the judge to arrive at the GOE for the original dance and free dance. The judge takes into consideration the following in the assignment of the GOE: The judge will mark the quality of the execution of each required element in the original dance and free dance depending on the positive features of the execution and errors on the seven grades of execution scale: -3, -2, -1, 0, +1, +2, +3. The aspects to be assessed for each element in assigning the GOE are noted in the left margin for each element in Table 6.2. The judge is to select the column which applies for the majority of the aspects to determine GOE. The score assigned by the judge is reduced by one grade if only 50 percent of the aspects apply, or if one aspect is out by two grades (denoting a major error). The quality of each technical element is evaluated, and if there are errors there is a reduction for each until the maximum assessment of -3 is reached. Required elements, if performed with specific errors, have specified adjustments to the GOE. These adjustments are either a specified reduction to the GOE or the evaluation of the element cannot be higher than a given negative number. The numerical value of the trimmed mean GOE awarded by the judging panel for each element is added to the element s base value. This is the judging panel s score for the technical element. The judging panel s scores for all the technical elements are added. This is the total technical score (TTS). 6.3.3 Program Components Evaluation for Original Dance and Free Dance The judge assigns a score using a 10-point numeric scale to each of the five program components for the original dance and free dance performances. Program components are evaluated by judges after completion of the dance on a scale from 0.25 to 10 with increments of 0.25. The range of components marks correspond to the following descriptions: 0.25... not present 1..... very poor 2..... poor 3..... weak 4..... fair 5..... average 6..... above average 7..... good 8..... very good 9..... superior 10.... outstanding Skating Skills (SS) are defined as overall skating quality, that is, edge control and flow over the ice surface demonstrated by a command of the skating vocabulary (edges, steps, turns, etc.). In addition, there must be clarity of technique and the use of effortless power to accelerate and vary speed. The following criteria comprise SS: Balance, rhythmic knee action and precision of foot placement Flow and effortless glide Cleanness and sureness of deep edges, steps and turns Power/energy and acceleration Mastery of multi-directional skating Mastery of one foot skating Equal mastery of technique by both partners shown in unison Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movements (TR) are defined as the varied and/or intricate footwork, positions, movements and holds that link all elements. The following criteria comprise TR: Variety Difficulty Intricacy Quality Balance of workload between partners Variety of dance holds (not excessive side by side and hand in hand) Conformity to pattern and stop requirements (original dance only) 6-13
Performance/Execution (PE) has two aspects. Performance is the involvement of the couple physically, emotionally and intellectually as they translate the intent of the music and the choreography. Execution is the quality of movement and precision in delivery. This includes harmony of movement. The following criteria comprise P/E: Physical, emotional and intellectual involvement Carriage Style and individuality/personality Clarity of movement Variety and contrast Projection Unison and oneness Balance in performance between partners Spatial awareness between partners management of the distance between partners and management of the changes of hold. Composition/Choreography (CH) is defined as an intentional, developed and/or original arrangement of all types of movements according to the principals of proportion, unity, space, pattern, structure and phrasing. The following criteria comprise CH: Purpose (idea, concept, vision) Proportion (equal weights of the parts) Unity (purposeful threading) Utilization of personal and public space Pattern and ice coverage Phrasing and form (movements and parts structured to match the phrasing of the music) Original of purpose, movement and design Shared responsibility in achieving purpose by both Interpretation/Timing (IN) is defined as the personal and creative translation of the music to movement on ice. The following criteria comprise IN: Effortless movement in time to the music (timing) Expression of the music s style, character and rhythm Use of finesse to reflect the nuances of the music Relationship between the partners reflecting the character of the music Appropriateness of the music (original dance and free dance) Skating primarily to the rhythmic beat for the original dance and skating to the rhythmic beat for free dance NOTE: If the music does not have a rhythmic beat, the judges must take a deduction from the Interpretation/Timing mark. For informational purposes, the Original Dance and Free Dance Marking Guide for Components are contained in Appendix 6.05. 6.3.4 Program Component Factors Each segment of ice dancing is factored differently reflecting the relative importance of a particular component to an ice dance program. For the original dance, every competitive season a new rhythm is announced for the original dance. The original dance is the skating by a couple of a dance of their own creation to dance music they have selected for the designated rhythms. The original dance must reflect the character prescribed of the dance rhythm(s) and be translated to ice by demonstrating technical skill along with flow and use of edges. The designated emphasis on the factoring for original dance is the Interpretation/Timing (IN) program component score and then secondary is the Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movement (TR) and Skating Skills (SS) program component scores. For the free dance, the ice dancers are given the freedom to select from most musical styles. Free dance is the skating by a couple of a creative program with dance steps and movements expressing the character of the music chosen by the couple. The designated factor emphasized here is the Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movements (TR) program component score. 6-14
Original Dance The judging panel s points for each program component are then multiplied by factors which are as follows: Skating Skills (SS)........................... 0.80 Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movements (TR)..... 0.80 Performance/Execution (PE)..................... 0.60 Composition/Choreography (CH).................. 0.60 Interpretation/Timing (IN)..................... 1.00 Free Dance The judging panel s points for each program component are then multiplied by factors which are as follows: Skating Skills (SS)........................... 1.25 Transitions/Linking Footwork and Movements (TR)..... 1.75 Performance/Execution (PE)..................... 1.00 Composition/Choreography (CH).................. 1.00 Interpretation/Timing (IN)..................... 1.00 6.4 Summary Ice dancing is comprised of three segments for the junior and senior levels: compulsory dance, original dance and free dance. The novice ice dance event is comprised of the compulsory dance event and the free dance. For each segment the judge assigns grades of execution (GOEs) reflecting the judges evaluation of the quality of the required elements or in the case of compulsory dance, by section of the dance pattern. The judge then evaluates the whole performance which is divided into four program component scores for compulsory dance and five program components for the original dance and the free dance. The judge assigns a score to each of the program components. The total segment score (TSS) in each part of a competition (compulsory dance, original dance and free dance) is calculated by adding the total technical score (TTS) and the program component scores (PCS), multiplied by its corresponding factors and if applicable, subtracting any program deductions. The final product produces the final score (FS) and the placement of the skaters. See Module 4.0 for further information on calculating the scores. 6-15