Re: [Callers] Using effective word order in prompts... - Contra Callers

24 Dec 2009

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 Message: 6
Date: Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:44:18 -0800 (GMT-08:00)
From: Greg McKenzie &lt;gregmck(a)earthlink.net&gt;
Subject: Re: [Callers] Using effective word order in prompts

 Laila wrote:
My understanding is that the basic rule is "who, what, how much [if
needed]"; e.g. "gents allemande left once and a half," or "partner
balance
and swing" (as opposed to the commonly heard "balance and swing your
partner").  The idea is to give the dancers the information in the order
they need it -- first, they need to orient toward the correct person, then
know what to do, then know how long to keep doing it (unless it's
obvious).  I was also taught that the "how much" is one of the first
things you leave off when you're shortening calls in preparation for
dropping out entirely. 
Greg wrote:
Laila is correct.  The basic principle is the same, though I learned a
variation.  I also have to admit that the phrase "effective word order" may
be an invention of mine.  This idea is usually treated as a basic of
structuring calls.  I coined the phrase to emphasize the importance of this
principle. 
Okay. I follow the same rule as Lewis <the way they sign themselves>. My
cards are written that way and that's the way I call. There was just
something about that phrase you use Greg that made me wonder if things had
changed over time and I was no longer calling most effectively. 

And I have to say that I wasn't sure I saw the link between effective word
order and booking ahead, centre set syndrome and failure to integrate
newcomers until I read through the whole section of the article you
included. But I agree with your comments. I'd be interested in reading the
rest of the article.

Thanks for the reality check! Wishing everyone on Shared Weight a happy and
healthy holiday season and lots of calling in the New Year!
Bev