The tendu is started in the third position with one foot slightly behind the other. Use the back of a chair or ballet barre for support and slide the foot that is away from the chair or barre forward until just your toes are touching the floor. Return back to the third position before sliding your foot out to the side so that only the toes are touching the floor. Return to third position and last, slide your foot to the back again so that only your toes are touching the floor. Turn around and repeat the tendu sequence with the other leg. Tendus strengthen the feet and legs and help develop foot arches.
The degage is the same sequence as the tendu but involves lifting your foot approximately three inches from the floor and strongly pointing your toes. Go first toward the front, lift your foot then return to third position. Then go to the side, lift your foot and return to third position. Last, slide your foot behind your body, lift and return to third position. Degages are important for developing foot strength for future jumps.
Grand Battements are almost the same as the degage but involve more extreme lifting. Begin to the front by sliding your foot so only your toes are touching the ground then do a slow, controlled kick to hip level. Lower your leg and return to third position. Kick to the side next and finally to the back. It's important that the kicks remain controlled in both speed and height.
Plies are done in both first and second position and can be demi or full. To begin in first position, keep your legs straight and held together with feet pointing outward. For a demi plie bend your knees so they stay in line with your feet and your feet stay planted on the floor. A full plie in first position starts the same way but knees are bent as far as possible so heels raise off the floor. Second position begins with feet shoulder-width apart, and the plie can be done in full or demi. Plies are the basis of everything done in ballet and strengthen leg and gluteal muscles.