Final answer:
Learn stepping by starting with small steps, introducing various stomps, slapping the boot at the ankle, and adding claps, jumps, and turns. Additionally, discuss the cultural significance through Alexandra Pajak's poem “An African American Step Show”.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stepping is a form of percussive dance in which the participant's body is used to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word, and hand claps. For a 12-year-old or older, here is a step-by-step procedure to learn stepping:
Start with small steps to get comfortable with the basic rhythm and pacing of stepping.
Incorporate a variety of stomp dynamics such as single and double stomps to add complexity to the routine.
Slap the boot at the ankle with an open hand for an additional sound in the step routine.
Include claps, jumps, and turns to make the performance more dynamic and engaging.
Study and discuss Alexandra Pajak's poem “An African American Step Show” to understand the cultural significance and connections of Steppin' to African music and references to South Africa.
Finally, practice the routine, imagining performing it with confidence and precision, similar to the poem's description of “Thirteen approach the stage dressed as fat policemen.”