Movement and Elements of Dance Lesson Plans

Students share dance moves that reflect their personalities or depict how they are feeling, explore popularity of recreational and competitive social dancing by reading and discussing the article "Follow the Flying Feet," present examples of social dancing, research dance forms performed in class, and reflect on which dance styles they like best.

Students explore basic dance element of force, compare and contrast the use of force as it distinguishes the expressive qualities of a given dance, and explore the use of force in several of its many expressions.

Students discuss dance elements and create a dance map. They choose a dance theme and incorporate movement into their dance maps and choreography. They also experiment with different types of music.

Learners perform a dance step in physical education class. They move to the beat of the music, counting eight beats to a set of movements. Students walk forward four counts and do two jumping jacks. They walk backwards four counts and do alternating punches across their bodies, stepping out at the same time. Learners grapevine right and then left for four counts each. They swim for eight counts. The dance is repeated for the duration of the music.

Young scholars learn about the a dance company with disabled dancers as well as the field of integrated dance. In this integrated dance lesson plan, students read passages about the AXIS Dance Company, an integrated dance company of able and disabled dancers. Young scholars complete research about the history of integrated dance and theatre, give a presentation of their research, and complete exercises using the approach of integrated dance.

Students study the art of Bharata Natyam Indian dance. In this Indian dance lesson, students read text about Indian dance Bharata Natyam dance. Students may create their own dance and a television story about the topic.

Fourth graders explore dance as creative expression and a form of communication. In this dance study lesson, 4th graders discuss dance and categorize their class list. Students then participate in dance movements. Students discuss the communicative elements of dance and then work in groups to choreograph signature dances. Students complete a dance  activity as well as several journal activities.

Learners research Margaret Jenkins. In this modern dance instructional activity, students discuss the life of Margaret Jenkins and the art of modern dance. They create their own modern dance focusing on time, shape, movement, and energy.

Learners conclude the semester with an individual movement study utilizing basic elements of dance and choreography previously covered in class. They will choose from three choreographic prompts presented a few days before giving them class time to begin their process.

Seventh graders explore the traditional dances of various immigrants into the United States. While attending a cultural event from a specific immigrant group, 7th graders observe cultural dances. They interview members of the ethnic group and learn the dance. Pupils create a formal presentation to be given in class.