Criterion A: Planning

LEARNING GOAL & PERSONAL INTEREST

LEARNING GOAL: I want to learn about the history and meaning behind the smaller dances
within the Indian Classical Dance form of Bharatantyam and it’s components, along with the
cultural context of the dance form. I want to explore the intended story each dance aims to convey,
as well as the significance of specific mudras (hand gestures) in relation to it’s meaning, as well as
physical components such as costume, stage, accessories, etc. This would include learning about the
sahityas within each dance and their corresponding religious and cultural significance, as well as
how the components listed above tie into the delivery of this meaning.

PERSONAL INTEREST: I have always been very passionate about

dance–– especially Indian classical dance, and from a very young age
itself had started exploring the field. I started learning Kathak at the age
of 5, which I enjoyed immensely, but it was paired with hindustani
classical music. Later on, I discovered Bharatnatyam through a friend
and became way more invested in this art form. In April 2022, I
completed 7 years with Nrityangana academy and earned my dancers
degree. During the 7 years of training for the dance form, I had explored many different aspects
within the art, that went above and beyond simple practising and performance of steps. I learned
about how dances are choreographed–– by combining different complexities of movements. This is
what sparked my interest in delving deeper into the history of the dance and understanding the
significance of different parts within the dance. Along with the training I also performed as part of
multiple stage performances that enacted stories or were pieces of pure dance.

Other than my basic interest in Bharatnatyam as a dance form itself, I am also an avid reader and
love deep diving into the history of the world. Not only will this help me during the extensive
research that I would need to conduct to achieve my learning goal, it will also further my interest in
such topics. I love reading and researching about Ancient India which will lend itself to this task. To
me it is fascinating how the dance form is not simply about the dance itself, and instead
encompasses all fields of knowledge––
from language, to music and history.
Below is a wider scope of my personal
interests in this project.

However, this goal will not be easy to

achieve despite my extensive experience
and understanding of the dance form. As
an extremely ancient art form, there is an
immense availability of texts that describe
the historical relevance of Bharatanatyam,
with various connections to Indian
mythology. My learning goal focuses on the theory of Bharatanatyam which is vastly different from
the practical aspects and will yield much deeper and complex knowledge, to decipher which I must
learn about various other subjects along with it. Beyond my personal interest in the subject, this
project will also help me develop a grasp on the global context that explores personal and cultural
expression, since essentially Bharatatanatyam was a medium used by the population to express their
cultural ideas, beliefs and values, which is something that I want to further my knowledge in. This
relates directly to my fascination with history, and would explicate how an art form ties deeply into
the culture of India. In order to achieve my learning goal I would need to inquire into the different
ways in which Bharatnatyam was used as a cultural and religious expression in both Ancient India,
and what we see today. This will enable me to reflect on the reasons behind our appreciation of
certain aesthetics and their application.

INTENDED PRODUCT & SUCCESS CRITERIA

PRODUCT GOAL: My goal is to create a digital portfolio that consists of the different dances in
Bharatanatyam with historical context and research into the meaning behind every component
(costume, movements, stories, etc). This portfolio will be helpful to those wishing to research and
understand Bharatanatyam beyond its physical representation in the form of dance. It is not
common knowledge that Bharatanatyam is deeply interwoven into Indian history, and transcends
the boundaries of states having withstood the test of time, as well as the numerous attacks on Indian
culture. As a product, this portfolio will be a gateway to learning about the purest aspects of Indian
culture and traditions– which would not only help people already interested in the dance form, but
also those wishing to research facets of Indian history.

I will be able to judge the success of my product based on a few parameters developed by me to
understand whether the learning accumulated from the goal set by me has been applied effectively to
create the product planned by me. These criteria are imperative to explicate the objective and
appearance of my final product.

Category & Justification & Levels Testing Method

Criterion Research

CONTENT This is an important ACHIEVED A sample from my

Meaning of criterion since it clarifies (i) 5 different dances are clearly mentioned target audience will be
dances the what content needs and outlined within the portfolio selected randomly to
to be presented. The (ii) The cultural context and meaning of the count the number of
The portfolio purpose of this project is dance is clearly explained dances explained and
to explain the meaning (iii) The portfolio is less than 30 pages long
presents a verify whether each of
detailed behind different dances. the dances is explained
Bharatnatyam as an art PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
analysis of 5 (i) 4 different dances are clearly mentioned coherently. The sample
dances based form consists of six tester will also be
distinct portions of and outlined within the portfolio
on their (ii) Either the cultural context or meaning of asked to attest to the
dance which are
cultural the dance is clearly explained fact that the cultural
Alarippu, Jathiswaram,
contexts and Shabdam, Varnam,
(iii) The portfolio is exactly 30 pages long context of the dance is
meaning. It Padam and Tillana explained. The pages of
will not NOT ACHIEVED the portfolio will be
(Kalyani Kala Mandir)
exceed 30 (i) Less than 4 dances are outlined in the numbered to check
from which I can choose
pages. portfolio whether it exceeds 30
to explore any five. (ii) Neither the cultural context or the pages or not.
meaning of the dance is explained
(iii) The portfolio is more than 30 pages long

CONTENT This is relevant to the ACHIEVED This can be tested

Visual success of my product, (i) There is a short video clip or photo of using another target
Depiction since without this there each dance after the explanation audience sample who
is no linkage to my (ii) The clip/picture connects to the research can go through the
Photos of research. This will give conducted portfolio and check
each of the my audience a visual whether clips for each
representation of the PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
five dances dance are available.
research conducted and (i) There is a short video clip/photo of at least
above as 3 dances after the explanation They should be able to
performed by allow them to connect understand its
parts of my research (ii) They have a vague connection to the
me need to research connection to the
with its practical
be included research conducted.
application. Visual
in the NOT ACHIEVED The length of the
portfolio presentation of any (i) Video clips/pictures for less than 3 dances videos will be verified
information also are included in the portfolio by checking the
accelerates perception timestamps on it.
and reduces cognitive
stress (Donska).

CONTENT The three components ACHIEVED This can be tested by

Context of mentioned are a major (i) The relevance of the costume is explained reviewing the content
components part of the dance form with a minimum of 3 examples with my supervisor and
since they are symbols (ii) The importance of the music & lyrics is marking whether each
The in the stories that the portrayed using a minimum of 2 examples of the components has
dances outline. Aharya, (iii) The religious context of the dance form
relevance of been explained clearly
which is the term for is explained with historical relevance and 4
the following examples with the desired
components costume in Tamil, is number of examples or
should be very important to each not. The relevance and
and every dance PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
clearly (i) The relevance of the costume is explained accuracy of the
(Srinivas). Similarly,
outlined: with 2 examples examples can be
each dance has specific
Costume, music that lends to its
(ii) The importance of the music & lyrics is verified through
religious portrayed using only 1 example research and double
religious context and
context, (iii) The religious context of the dance form checking. Overall,
makes it a prayer. is explained with historical relevance and 2-3
music & Without these three most of the content
lyrics examples strands can be tested
components working (iv) Only some of the three strands above are
together, a cohesive using target audience
achieved
dance is impossible to samples.
choreograph. NOT ACHIEVED
(i) The relevance of the costume is not
explained
(ii) The importance of the music & lyrics is
portrayed without any examples or not
portrayed at all
(iii) The religious context of the dance form
is either not explained or explained with less
than 3 examples

AESTHETIC This is important to the ACHIEVED This criterion can be

S final portfolio since it (i) The final portfolio has design elements tested pretty easily, by
Appearance should be designed in a only in shades of brown, grey and/or blue asking a reader to
& way that is aesthetically (ii) The portfolio doesn’t use any bright or verify whether they see
Presentation pleasing but does not distracting colours any other colours. This
draw attention away can also be tested by
from the content of the PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
The portfolio the creator themselves
portfolio. Research (i) The final portfolio has design elements
will have a mostly in shades of brown, grey and/or blue as they can verify this
colour indicates that brown and fact when revising and
blue are two such (ii) The portfolio uses few bright or
scheme distracting colours editing the final
colours that are
consisting portfolio. This test can
aesthetically pleasing–
only of in combination or NOT ACHIEVED have more than one
muted tones separately, that can help (i) The final portfolio doesn’t have design trial to ensure that no
such as elements only in shades of brown, grey one finds these colours
the reader focus
shades of and/or blue distracting
(Veurink).
brown, grey (ii) The portfolio uses many bright or
or blue distracting colours

FUNCTION Dividing the information ACHIEVED This can be tested by

Organisation into sections will make (i) The portfolio is split into 4-5 clearly the creator themselves
& Purpose it much easier for the labelled sections when revising and
readers to understand (ii) All sections contain subsections to further editing the final
The portfolio the information. It is organise the information portfolio. The number
proven that structured (iii) Each section has a clear title and outline
will be of sections can be
separated information makes it counted and verified to
40% easier for humans PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
into sections see whether they have
based on the to understand (IBM (i) The portfolio is split into some clearly titles. For further
content being Cloud), since their labelled sections security in this fact, a
covered brains can (ii) Some sections contain subsections to target audience sample
compartmentalise the further organise the information could also be asked to
data. Hence, if the (iii) Each section has a title
review the portfolio to
portfolio is organised check whether each
into sections the readers NOT ACHIEVED
(i) The portfolio is split into less than 3 section is coherent and
will retain more in order.
information. Moreover, labelled sections
it will give them the (ii) The sections don’t contain subsections to
further organise the information
choice to read
(iii) The sections don’t have a clear title and
whichever parts they
outline
find interesting or
thought provoking.

FUNCTION It is essential that the ACHIEVED This would be tested

Organisation final product have a (i) Each reader is able to learn 4 things they through user feedback
& Purpose learning outcome for didn’t know about before from a minimum of
each reader, since the (ii) The readers understand the different three-four samples
The portfolio purpose of this creation components of Bharatnatyam clearly from the target
presents a is to compile structured (iii) The meanings of dances are clear to the
audience, that would be
learning research about user
selected randomly to
outcome for Bharatanatyam that ensure authenticity.
each reader in makes an audience view PARTIALLY ACHIEVED
(i) Some readers learn between 3-4 new Along with random
terms of the art form through a
understanding things user samples, I could
broadened perspective.
the (ii) Some components of the dance are also use a dancer to
components understood by the reader conduct a test, in order
and meanings (iii) The meanings of most dances are clear to ensure that even
of dances in people who already do
Bharatanatya NOT ACHIEVED Bharatnatyam (like me)
m (i) Readers learn at least 1-2 new things gain a deeper
(ii) The meanings of a few dances are clear to understanding of it.
the readers

PLAN FOR PRODUCT

LONG TERM PLAN (FOCUSES ON PRODUCT ONLY)
The long term plan looks at the major deadlines for the project, and the stages in which it will be
completed. These will be further detailed in the short-term plan, but this presents a basic outline of
how I plan to work on my product in the time provided. I want to be able to complete research
heavy work in the first month itself so that I can work on the portfolio more comprehensively.
 SHORT TERM PLAN (FOCUSES ON PRODUCT ONLY)
The short term plan will focus on the development of the product in a more specific manner–
considering the relevance of each aspect in regards to the success criterion created earlier. It
observes the process from the beginning of the research for the product to the end, where it is
compiled into the final portfolio.

Task Description Success Required Resources Time Date/s

Criteria Estimate

Preparation for the Project

0.1 Read Abhinaya Understanding Abhinaya Darpanam: 3-4 hours 16/1 20/10/22
Darpanam & Natya the background Reading material 0/22 Complete
Shastra behind the Natya Shastra: Religious & d on
dance form Cultural context reference Time
before starting source
project

PROGRESS This part of the project was completed according to schedule and I was able
to read most of the natya shastra and relevant portions of the Abhinaya
Darpan. Both the texts are extremely theoretical and heavy yet gave me a
holistic idea about the dance.

Task 1: Research the five chosen dances and record performances

1.1 Select five dances: “The portfolio Abhinaya Darpanam: 20 24/10/22

Choose any five from presents a Guide to classical dances minutes Completed on
the six sections detailed Time
detailed above analysis of 5
dances based
1.2 Research the dances on their cultural 1. Laptop: Secondary 3 hours 15/11/22
based on: contexts and sources, websites,
- Religious context - meaning” articles, etc. + 1 hour 16/11/22
traditional value and 2. Nritya Kala Book: Guide (Actual Date of
divine intentions of the to the dances and theory Completion)
piece
behind them
- Place in performances
3. Abhinaya Darpanam:
- order, significance of
the position Book detailing classical
- Meaning - dances
understanding of the
movements, story
being told

1.3 Record clips of each “Short clips of at 1. Video Camera 40 20/11/22

 chosen dance, with a least 30 seconds 2. Laptop minutes Completed on
connection to the of each of the five 3. Costume: Basic training Time
research gathered dances above costume, not full fledged
need to be
(religious context, stage performance
included in the
order and meaning) costume
portfolio”
a. Plain white Kurta
b. Red Dupatta

PROGRESS Everything in this phase of the plan went mostly according to plan, but I
realised that for certain parts of the plan I needed to budget more time–
especially in the research heavy sections and hence I overshot the expected
deadline by about one day. Keeping this in mind moving forward I will budget a
little extra time for more clerical tasks.

Task 2: Research and analyse the components of Bharatnatyam

2.1 Research religious 1. Laptop: Secondary 45 22/11/22

context of the dance sources, websites, articles, minutes
form as a whole; etc. 23/11/22
2. Nritya Kala Book: Guide to
understand it’s usage + 1 hour
the dances and theory behind
as a substitute for
them
prayer “The relevance 3. Abhinaya Darpanam: Book
of the following detailing classical dances
components
2.2 Find the relevance of should be 1. Components of the 30 24/11/22
costume to the dance clearly outlined: costume: minutes
(take pictures and Costume, a. Jewellery Completed on
religious b. Clothes
research examples to Time
context, music c. Make-up
include in the
2. Laptop: Secondary
portfolio) & lyrics”
sources, websites, articles,
etc.

2.3 Gather information 1. Laptop: Secondary 30 26/11/22

on the connection of sources, websites, articles, minutes
music and lyrics etc. Completed on
2. Abhinaya Darpanam: Book
(language) as well as Time
detailing classical dances
important shlokas to
3. Audio clips from my
the dance form and teacher: lyrics and their
sample clips to meanings explained
include in the final 4. Natya Shastra: Treatise on
portfolio classical dances in India

2.4 Conduct interview 1. Question list 45 30/11/22

with guru to 2. Interview set up with minutes Completed on
understand each mentor Time
component further

PROGRESS In this phase as well, everything went according to plan other than the
research phase that required some additional time since it was much more
intricate than I had anticipated and required a lot of reading and interpretation
of information. It was extremely technical as well, so I had to push it forward.

Task 3: Organise the content in the portfolio

3.1 Split the research into “The portfolio 1. Laptop: Final portfolio 30 10/12/22
three sections that will be will be combination of minutes
are further divided separated into digital and physical
into subsections sections based 2. Physical evidence:
a. Section 1: Overview on the content pictures, scraps, mind
of Bharatnatyam & being covered” maps, etc.
brief history
b. Section 2:
 Components
c. Section 3: Specific
dances and their
meanings
d. Section 4: Lore &
Literature
e. Section 5: Cultural
Influence

3.2 Format portfolio to fit “It will not 1. Laptop: Final portfolio 40 12/12/22
all the content into 30 exceed 30 will be combination of minutes
pages at most pages.” digital and physical

PROGRESS This part of the plan all went according to plan since it was mostly formatting
and putting the content in order. I didn’t require extra time and had been able
to specifically break down all the tasks required in this process.

Task 4: Design the portfolio

4.1 Create a uniform “The portfolio 1. Laptop: Final portfolio 45 20/12/22

template and design will have a will be a combination of minutes
each section with a colour scheme digital and physical. Could + 1 hour
theme consisting only use sources like:
of muted tones - Canva
4.2 Create a muted such as shades - SlidesGo 20
colour scheme that is of brown or - Pages minutes
the same throughout blue” To design the final
portfolio online
4.3 Format it to use a 30
consistent font in the minutes
digital portions

PROGRESS The final template creation of the portfolio took a while since I was working
with this kind of designing for the first time and had to ensure that I was able
to make everything uniform and aesthetically appealing. I did have a lot of
content as well, so in order to format it into visually supported information I
had to edit the template quite a bit. Over here as well I took only some extra
time and was able to finish the task by the deadline set by me regardless.

Overall, this plan helped me pace myself while working on the product and allowed me to make concrete
progress in an organised and productive manner. This plan budgeted for the different phases in the process of
creation and was kept updated throughout the timeline to make sure every time I used it it was up to date and
could be used to move forward. Although some edits were necessary, in sum, this plan was quite effective.
Criterion B: Applying Skills
The ATL skills targeted and developed by me through the process of this project include Research
Skills, Communication Skills & Self-Management Skills– all of which were honed through the
achievement of my learning and product goals. All three of these skills are inevitably
interconnected since to display strong communication skills, clarity and authenticity of the content
is important which is derived from research skills. Self-management skills are essential to any
project and tie together the rest to creare a cohesive product.

LEARNING GOAL:
i. Research Skills: Undoubtedly, one of the most useful skills that I developed during the course of
achieving my learning goal was research, including both information literacy skills and media
literacy skills. Using multiple sources of information, I was able to gather reliable and
multidimensional knowledge on the subject and create a database of particulars that will help me
build my product. This skill was invaluable to the process since it helped me assemble an even more
in-depth understanding of Bharatanatyam through different perspectives and contexts, allowing me
to structure and present an objective view in the product.

Locating, organising and ethically using primary and secondary

sources was an incredibly important sub-skill that helped me gather
information that would go into the final portfolio. I used a variety
of different kinds of sources, including books on the topic from
different authors, as well as online databases that ethically procured
and conveyed their information. These sources were located
through research in different ways– through physical libraries for
books, online databases, e-books, as well as interviews and
discussions with professionals in the field. I then organised the list
of sources and content using an infographics table that sorts them based on type and content
discovered. This will help me later in reading and absorbing the vast information base and
comprehend it in a logical manner. Each of the sources used was reliable and authentic.

To make sure the information I used was ethically procured, I

cited all my sources in the MLA9 format, that parallely
showcases the creation of references and citations, using
footnotes/endnotes and constructing a bibliography according
to recognized conventions. I did this using a recognised and
reliable software called Noodletools which allows me to
authentically refer to different types of sources giving them
the homage required and ensuring absolute transparency.

Along with this, I also interpreted and communicated the

data collected effectively, which shows how I was able to
gather coherent and logical information that helped me
convey and create an understandable product. I did this by
making notes after reading and comprehending each of the
sources, and then categorized them in my journal (see Fig
5.). The sections of information are labelled according to the
categories for the final product so that my research is
collated in an orderly manner and will be easy to sort when the product is finally put together. As
the research gets more and more technical, there are handwritten notes and drawings included into
the journal as well.

In order to gather reliable and authentic information I had to

seek a range of perspectives from varied and multiple sources
using different mediums of research as well. Each and every
piece of information was corroborated using cross referencing
and perspectives of different experts on the subject. The
Abhinaya Darpan by Nandikeshwara was one of these sources
of information, which is said to be the first and truest treatise
on Sanskrit dance forms in India. However, to collect a varied
amount of views on the subject I also conducted personal
interviews with more contemporary dancers and a Bharatnatyam
guru who are well-versed with the evolved version that is
performed today, to gain a better understanding and well-rounded
perspective on the nuances of performance. Each of these sources
were further verified and proved reliable through evaluation using
an OPVL rubric, that brought out the values and limitations of
each of them, to make sure all the data included in my product
would be trustworthy and relevant.

PRODUCT GOAL:
i. Communication Skills

Since my product goal was to build a portfolio that explicates the cultural relevance and
components of Bharatnatyam, communication skills were key in developing the final piece,
especially after the research was complete in order to collate the data in a coherent manner. This
was a skill that I honed through the creation process, which helped me present my research in a
way, that will engage and inform the audience at the same time, in a structured and logical manner.

Firstly, I had to condense my research into accurately and

concisely paraphrased content that was directly relevant
to the aim of my portfolio, which is to ensure complete
clarity of understanding for my target audience. After
conducting my base research, I created a separate
document in which I added all my notes – including
handwritten snippets and digitally typed information. These notes were specific to particulars of the
dance form, such as understanding the meaning of certain shlokas or the importance of aharya
(costume) in the art. These notes were then used directly in the final product with clear in-text
references duly accrediting the sources.

Using this research, I was then able to organise and depict

information logically by applying a uniform structure across the
portfolio that divided the contents of my research into clearly labelled
and explained sections. The sections were as follows: History, Music
& Costume, Dance, Lore & Literature and Cultural Influence. By
doing this, the dance form is systematically broken down into smaller
components, each of which are then thoroughly and methodically
elucidated. Each section is relevant to a certain strand of my success
criteria and this further allows my audience to choose and explore the
portfolio according to what they are looking for or want to learn specifically. It also presents the
data in a logical and ordered manner facilitating clearer understanding.

I also used and applied intercultural understanding to interpret communication during the process of
finding information to include in my final product. There were
many sources of information that were in different languages
and the personal interviews conducted by me were also with
people from different cultural backgrounds. The dance form
itself is rooted in Tamilian culture, which is different from my
own cultural background. To understand the lyrics and recitation, as well as some important words
that are a part of this art form I had to develop a strong intercultural understanding that included not
only the nuances of words and phrases in different languages but also acknowledging the cultural
differences in the history and background of the dance itself.

ii. Self-Management Skills

Along with communication skills, in order to complete and efficiently organise the final product
self-management was an invaluable skill that had to be polished during the process. This skill
helped me manage my time and plan my work in a way that would allow me to assemble a finished
product in an effective manner. Without this skill it would have been impossible to finish this
product.

I made sure to plan short and long term assignments and meet all deadlines set by me using planners
and timetables dedicated to each part of the creation of the project. This was done not only through
an organised table that is present in this report, but also using different platforms to create specific
to-do lists and even an organiser board to keep track of the different tasks I needed to complete. At
times when I faced setbacks or delays in the plan I
practised analysing and attributing causes for the failures
in which I found that some of the issues were due to
time-management on my behalf. This pushed me to
create a prioritisation system using which I created a list
of tasks from most to least important, with dedicated time
slots based on their deadlines which helped me follow
these plans much more systematically. Through the
process of analysing the causes for my failures and
setbacks I was able to develop a much better process of learning and communicating productively
that would not only help me in this project but will also help me manage my time and assignments
(school-related or otherwise) much more efficiently in the future.

Along with this I made sure to keep an organized and logical

system of information files/notebooks so that while compiling my
final product all my information would be handy and easy to
collate. I did this using two different platforms, including an online
workspace platform called Notion which is where I took notes and
organised the sections of the portfolio. This was done to make sure
each aspect detailed in the success criteria as developed by me was
explored thoroughly and included in the portfolio clearly and
coherently. Here is where I was able to create a database for all the
sub-sections of information, organised similar to a moodboard, with checklists and paraphrased
research notes within. The second platform used by me was a physical notebook, where I put
together all my handwritten notes and parts of the process journal that are offline. Having a single
notebook for all my notes aided me in putting together the final portfolio cohesively.

In the process of creating this product I also developed new skills, techniques and strategies for
effective learning that directed my focus and allowed me to manage my time productively. This
included the famous pomodoro technique which dictates working in bursts of 25 minutes spaced out
with 5 minute long breaks. This makes sure that during the short work period I am completely
concentrating on the task and prevented me from procrastinating. I used an online Pomodoro timer
to do this which was a helpful resource that gave me options to take slightly longer breaks as well.
Using this I was able to get large chunks of work done in one sitting as compared to spending
inordinate amounts of time on the task. I also used the Feynman technique while paraphrasing my
notes during which I spent time reading different articles and then gave
myself time to take notes and explain whatever I had understood
without referring to the source again. This helped with retention and
clarity on the topics that I wanted to understand and be able to explain.
Using this I was able to decisively include relevant information in the
final product. These resources and skills weren’t only helpful to this
single project, but had a wider impact on my overall development as a
learner. I was able to share them with my peers as well who found them
extremely useful in combatting procrastination and being able to focus
to get work done in a timely manner. This in tandem also showcases
how I tried new ATL skills such as applying social skills in order to
help others succeed and was able to evaluate their success by learning that my peers found it helpful
to try these study techniques as found by me.

Criterion C: Reflecting

EVALUATION OF PRODUCT:
Success Evaluation Test Evidence
Criteria

CONTENT

“The portfolio ACHIEVED: According to Tested using sample

presents a the rubric designed by me, the target audience to verify
detailed final product meets all of whether the dances were
analysis of 5 these criteria since it includes elucidated
dances based an analysis of exactly 5 comprehensively with
on their dances with a clear and complete information in
cultural logical explanation of their the product. User
contexts and meaning as well as their feedback from 3 sample
meaning. It cultural context at the time. testers who read the
will not exceed Furthermore, the portfolio portfolio for the first Fig 14. Information on
30 pages.” does not exceed 30 pages as time. Dance/s
required.

EVALUATION OF CRITERIA: This success criteria was helpful to the development of the final product
since it was specific and allowed for the product to present a detailed amount of information for the audience.

“Photos of ACHIEVED: The portfolio This was tested through

each of the five contains a picture of me an editors test where the
dances above performing each dance next to portfolio was revised by
as performed the analysis provided, the creator and each of
by me need to including snippets from the explanations of the
be included in sahityas within the dances as dances were matched to
the portfolio” well as adavus present in the photographs of the
dance completely fulfilling particular piece, with
the success criterion appropriate captions.
developed by me. Fig 15. Pictures of Dance
“The relevance ACHIEVED: Each of the This is visible in the
of the components mentioned in the final portfolio which is
following success criteria are explored broken down into
components in the portfolio including the sections according to the
should be relevance of aharya categories mentioned in
clearly (costume), the religious the success criteria, and
outlined: context of the dance– in terms each section is prefaced
Costume, of order of performance, and by a brief explanation of
religious the significance of music the component being
context, music (taal) and the lyrics of described
& lyrics” sahityas with their meanings.

EVALUATION OF CRITERIA: This specification, although helpful in compartmentalising information and

clarifying areas of research, could have been more specific and directed so that I could have explored deeper.

FUNCTION

“The portfolio ACHIEVED: The portfolio is A user test was done to

will be clearly split into 5 sections as see whether each section
separated into required by the success was clearly demarcated
sections based criteria, that organise the and a table of contents
on the content information in a logical was presented and
being covered” manner making it easier for whether it was helpful to
readers to process and learn the reader in any way.
from. Each of the sections are This test was conducted
logically partitioned and in order to understand
ordered for the reader to whether the portfolio
understand the portfolio achieved its aim in
cohesively. terms of its function–
conveying information
in a logical manner.

EVALUATION OF CRITERIA: This specification, although helpful in compartmentalising information

became slightly redundant due to the earlier criterion. It could have been edited to become more detailed.

“The portfolio ACHIEVED: Each user This was tested through

presents a learned about the different three sample audience
learning components of Bharatanatyam responses, who had no
outcome for that was further tested through prior knowledge about
each reader in a quiz about each section. this subject as required
terms of They also understood the by the rubric. This was
understanding meanings of different sahityas achieved since each user
the and shlokas in dances. Each responded positively
components user presented a distinct with individual and
and meanings learning outcome showing the distinct learning
of dances in overall effectiveness of the outcomes. I also
Bharatanatyam portfolio. Even the already questioned a dancer to
” established dancer claimed see whether their
that their knowledge knowledge had been Fig 18. Dancer learning outcome
enhanced as mine had.

EVALUATION OF CRITERIA: This specification was helpful to measure the success of the product since I
needed to make sure it was impactful and that it would reach its target audience to the extent intended.

AESTHETICS
 “The portfolio PARTIALLY ACHIEVED: An editors test was
will have a The portfolio mainly consists conducted where the
colour scheme of muted tones including both layout was judged by art
consisting only blue and grey, but also students who evaluated
of muted tones employs the usage of bright the usage of muted tones
such as shades colours in certain spaces– versus bright colours in
of brown, grey when describing the costume the portfolio. It was
or blue” and religious significance of deemed partially
the dance. successful because the
Fig 19. Template & Cover
usage of bright colours
Page
was limited to parts
where it was absolutely
necessary and
appropriate in context.

EVALUATION OF CRITERIA: This criteria was helpful in order to plan the layout for the portfolio, giving
direction but was a bit too restrictive in terms of shades chosen and hence not fully achieved either.

EVALUATION OF OVERALL SPECIFICATION: Overall, the success criterion developed by me at the

beginning of the project mostly helped streamline the product and tailor it to achieving my learning and
product goals, but could have been edited to be less overlapping and restrictive, and more specific in certain
areas. Additionally, diversifying the testing methods by including more expert appraisals would have
enhanced the authenticity of the product as well as provided variation to the way in which I verified it.

IMPACT ON MYSELF:
The learning goal identified by me for this project was “to learn about the history and
meaning behind Bharatnatyam dances and other components of Bharatnatyam, along with the
cultural context of the dance form. I wanted to learn more about the meaning behind different parts
of various dance pieces within Bharatanatyam, as well as physical components such as costume,
stage, accessories, etc.” Through the course of the project, I was able to gather a much deeper
understanding of these factors. This project also furthered my interest in Indian history and it’s rich
cultural heritage. Through extensive reading, of different kinds of literature– transcending cultural
borders and including an amalgamation of styles and languages, I was able to expand my
knowledge of this highly popular classical dance form that taught me there are many different styles
of Bharatntyam that include Tanjore, Padanallur, Melattur and Vazhavoor, all of which slightly
differ in elementary aspects and I chose to explore the Tanjore style of dance which is most
popularly propagated and performed..
Via my research process, I learned a lot about the intersections between momentous
historical and cultural shifts that were directly interwoven with the art of Bharatnatyam, which was
incredibly fascinating and broadened my perspective on Indian history considerably. For example: I
learned about the Devdasi Pratha, in which women devoted themselves entirely to worship and
isolated themselves from society. The word Devdasi can be split up to literally mean servant of god,
and they were the ‘hereditary proprietors’ of Bharatanatyam as a dance form which they performed
in royal courts, temples and in elite gatherings. This explicates the religious context of the dance in
great detail and its relevance to traditional Indian prayer practices in ancient India. Additionally,
Natraja who is an embodiment of Lord Shiva from Hindu mythology, is considered to be the Lord
of Dance and is represented in symbolism throughout the art form, including many-handed
depictions of him on covers of most Bharatnatyam based books. In sum, I experienced a great
amount of personal growth as a learner through the course of this project as I became a more
well-rounded student, especially in regards to the Attributes of IB learner profile– three in particular
which include being Knowledgeable, Open-Minded and a Communicator.
I became more knowledgeable since I was able to develop a deeper conceptual
understanding of a field I had previously only explored in a practical manner, through the lens of
Indian culture and history. This included learning about the theory and logic behind the different
practices observed by Bharatnatyam dancers. I was also able to apply this knowledge in order to
engage with ideas that had strong local significance and influence over South Indian culture and
traditions. The rituals observed by Bharatnatyam dancers were often incorporated into praying
traditions by royal families, that had a ripple effect cementing certain practices into the core of
Indian culture. This knowledge base makes me a more well-rounded and holistic learner and I
believe I will be able to analyse this art form from a more evolved standpoint now.
I also became more open-minded while working on this project since I was able to critically
appreciate my own national culture and history through a different viewpoint that I had no idea
about prior to this project. Gathering knowledge about the impact that this dance form had on
society throughout the years has given me a broader cognizance of sociocultural influences such as
the variation of gender roles in society. For example I gleaned that unlike several parts of the
country where dance is considered a largely feminine activity, a large number of men are
Bharatnatyam dancers as well– diverging from tradition. In my report, when explicating the history
of the dance I also provided information about the gender divide to raise awareness within the
readers, and help them gain a broader perspective about this art form. It reflects the fluid gender
roles in Ancient Indian society and brings forth the question of externally influenced gender norms
that led to modern perception of only women as dancers.
I transformed into a stronger communicator as well since I was able to learn to express
myself creatively in more than one language and in many ways through the creation of the portfolio.
I was able to include culturally appropriate content through pictures and drawings, as well as typed
research. I also explained relevant terminology in the language of origin of the dance, and the
importance of Carnatic music in performances giving homage to the genesis of the art form. I was
able to effectively listen to and communicate different perspectives on the topic through the journey,
since I explored various texts and spoke to dancers that performed differing styles of the dance to
understand its nuances better.
The completion of this project will also lead to the interdisciplinary transference of skills
developed during this process, including the application of the learning techniques such as the
Feynman Technique and the Pomodoro technique that will help me study for my academic subjects
as well. I will be able to extrapolate my new found research skills, that go beyond reading online
material and now extends to looking for information on different databases and archives, as well as
physical research in the form of books, papers and personal interactions, which is not something I
would have looked for earlier. This will help me find more authentic and reliable information when
I research.
Overall, I was able to achieve my learning objective and product goal through the
completion of the portfolio, which not only furthered my understanding but also my passion in this
field. I have always enjoyed dancing but after reading about the history of this particular form and
how much it meant to dancers in a religious manner reignited my passion– not only for the dance
but also for Indian history. I was able to connect my performances to their cultural significance in
context of the different meanings of sahityas. It taught me to look beyond the obvious and explore
how interconnected art is with contemporary and ancient cultures, and its importance to people
apart from entertainment. This project prompted me to pursue Bharatanatyam in a more holistic
manner in the future, by linking the meaning behind it to its performance. As I learned through my
research, Natya Shastra teaches a dancer that the better you understand a dance the more bhav
(emotion) you perform it with, and the more bhav you perform it with, the more impactful the final
piece is. After this learning journey I am confident that I will be a much more impactful dancer–
since I completely understand the emotion and story behind each performance.
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