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 CONDITIONING II

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

Prerequisite(s): Dance Conditioning I

Dance Conditioning II is a non-performance-based course that builds on the skills and knowledge learned in Dance Conditioning I. This course is designed to help students further develop their agility, flexibility, coordination, endurance, timing, and body awareness. Through a variety of proven techniques, such as Yoga, Pilates, Barre Method, and Zumba, students will learn to challenge themselves and experience the joy of movement.

DANCE I

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

Prerequisite(s): None

Do you love to dance? Do you want to learn new genres and techniques? Dance I is for dancers of all levels. It is a fusion of technique, combinations, choreography exploration, observations and discussions. Exploring a variety of dance genres, from contemporary, musical theater, jazz, hip-hop, ballet to multicultural dance. Developing your own creative and expressive voice through choreography and improvisation. Connecting dance history to current trends in dance, experimenting with creating dance reels and videos. 

DANCE II

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

Prerequisite(s): Dance I or Teacher Approval

Dance II is a performance-based course that will help you take your dance to the next level. This course is designed for students who have completed Dance I or have a similar level of experience. Students will learn more advanced dance technique and choreography in contemporary, jazz, musical- theater and hip hop. Further developing their own creative and expressive voice through choreography, improvisation and sharing it with dance reels/videos. Students may participate in field trips and master classes with professional artists, and showcase their Dance II choreography in concerts and other select performances throughout the year.

DANCE III 

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

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

Dance III is an advanced performance-based full year course that refines and advances the skills and knowledge acquired in Dance I and II.This course is designed for students who are passionate about dance and who are looking to challenge themselves and improve their skills. Students will learn advanced dance techniques and choreography in ballet, contemporary, jazz, musical theater and commercial dance. Developing their advanced improvisation skills and learning how to analyze dance. Students will hone their choreographic skills and collaborate with their peers to create innovative and expressive dances; including dance reels/videos. Dance III culminates their year showcasing choreography, artistry and the skills they've mastered through collaboration with professional artists.

DANCE HONORS

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

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

Dance Honors is an advanced-level course for passionate dancers who are ready to challenge themselves and take their skills to the next level. In this dynamic and inspiring course, you will explore advanced dance techniques, hone your choreographic skills, collaborate with other dancers and professionals, and perform your work on stage. You will also learn how to create dance videos/films to capture your choreography and share it with the world. Dance Honors is a performance-based course, having the opportunity to perform your choreography in dance concerts and other select performances throughout the year. You will have the opportunity to apply for the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA) by meeting specific requirements.Dance Honors may be taken multiple times, as the course content, including repertoire, choreography, and projects, changes each year.

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.