March Through Beginning of April
Dance Unit:
This unit is designed to introduce the students to a variety of dances which includes: American Dances, Line Dances, Traditional Folk Dance, and Popular individual dances. The students will learn how to count the beat while listening to the music and follow the rhythmic cadence of the dances. Each student will develop interpersonal skills by communicating with their team and staying on beat as a group. The students will also learn the ethnic origins of each dance and how the dance played a role in society.
Objectives:
- 1. 1. The students will participate in a variety of traditional and non-traditional dances while following and memorizing the steps to the dance
- 2. 2. The students will demonstrate an understanding of beat and rhythm by staying in rhythm with their classmates and following the beat of the music.
- 3. 3. Each student will be able to count and dance to a 1/4 note, 1/8 note, and 1/16 note depending on the style of music and how fast the beat is.
- 4. 4. Be able to work with a variety of different people and groups for the same common goal.
- 5. 5. Understand and appreciate different cultures and how each culture has its own traditions and dances.
- 6. 6. The students will describe a variety of formations that were practiced in their dances.
- 7. 7. Demonstrate cooperation and teamwork by effectively working in a group setting during their dances.
- 8. 8. The students will describe why dance is an aerobic activity and how their hearts are affected by exercise.
Dances: kinder-polka, patty cake polka, bunny hop, alley cat, cha cha slide, cotton-eyed joe, Alabama dance, Sicilian Tarrentella, Viginia Reel, Troika etc.