The Dance classes offered at Paramus High School are designed for all students, regardless of dance experience, who are interested in exploring this art form. There are five (5) courses available to accommodate all developing skill levels. In addition to these offerings, there are two audition-based performance ensembles; Dance IV Honors Ensemble and the Spartanettes Dance Company*. These ensembles perform numerous times during the school year at performances at the high school and throughout the Paramus community.

DANCE I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Dance I is an introduction to the art of dance. Students will experience different genres of dance; ballet, contemporary, musical theater, jazz, hip-hop, and multicultural dance. No previous dance experience is necessary. Students will participate in field trips throughout the semester in order to observe live dance performances.

DANCE II

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I or Teacher Approval

Dance II builds upon the skills and knowledge acquired in Dance I. Dance II is a performance-based course that explores the history, choreography, improvisation and dance trends in the areas of ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, and musical theater. Students will participate in field trips and master classes with professional artists. Dance II is a performance-based course. Students are required to participate in dance concerts as well as other select performances during the school year.

DANCE III

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I & II or Teacher Approval

Dance III refines and advances the skills and knowledge acquired in Dance I and II. This advanced performance-based course cultivates the student’s techniques in ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, and musical theater. Dance III will focus on advanced improvisation, techniques, dance analysis and choreography. Students will develop the skills to create and perform original dance works. Students will participate in field trips and masterclasses with professional artists. Dance III is a performance-based course. Students are required to participate in dance concerts as well as other select performances throughout the school year.

DANCE HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Dance I, II, III + Teacher Approval

Dance IV Honors is an advanced-level course designed for students interested in pursuing a degree in Dance Performance and/or Dance Education at a secondary level. Advanced techniques in ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance will be explored. Through dance repertory, choreography projects and mock teaching experiences, students will be challenged to expand their artistic levels and technical skills. The focus of this course will be on transitioning from dancer to choreographer, exploring all areas of choreographic structures. Students will be required to create and perform solo and small group works with various themes including Dance for Democracy. Students are required to participate in dance concerts as well as other select performances throughout the year. By taking this class, students will have an opportunity to apply for the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (students must meet certain requirements). Dance IV Honors may be taken more than once as each year’s capstone project will differ.

ACTING I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Acting I is designed to introduce students to the physical and vocal elements of an actor’s work. Exercises in movement, pantomime, and improvisation develop concentration and dramatic imagination. Units on interpretation of poetry and prose expose students to the range of actor choices available to enhance a writer’s work. Scene study enables students to practice the composite skills of acting and analysis of dramatic literature. Two additional units explore the history of World Theater and careers in theater and related arts. Opportunities for performance before a live audience are frequently presented.

ACTING II

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Acting I

This second level of Acting is designed to broaden the knowledge, ability, and experience of the serious acting student. Work involves more in-depth script analysis and scene study. Techniques of acting, character interpretation, and performance styles are covered. Additional focus is placed on the preparation of monologues and audition techniques. Opportunities for performance before a live audience are frequently presented.