Abstract:
This is a video of a demonstration classroom. In this video, students learn about the first two elements of dance.
This video podcast, featuring Emily Caruso-Parnell and Grade 1/2 students was developed by Curriculum Services Canada. Students learn about the first two elements of dance.
17:43 in length.
"I really enjoy how the primary curriculum focuses on dance as creative movement rather than imitation. The warm-up activity that this teacher used connected movement to feeling, which allows the students to learn how to communicate and express feelings through movement. This gave students an alternative way to express themselves, which I feel is very important, especially for those who have trouble vocalizing or writing their feelings. As each student took their turn, the movements became more confident. So, I can state that this warm up activity is beneficial in lessening performance anxiety, or stage fright, among students. The warm-up is also a great activity to get to know your students names, and feelings during that particular moment. The teacher could interpret each movement and see whether students are happy, confident, sad, shy etc.
The second activity allowed the students to get into their bodies and use their bodies to express. I feel that this is so important, as students should have opportunities like this, that are unique in comparison to traditional forms of academic expression such as writing.
The Cinquian poem is an awesome activity to use with primary students! It allows the students to self-asses and also ensures students are applying various elements of dance. The students have perimeters during this activity to ensure that they complete a structured dance which is important for the teacher in terms of assessment, since, complete free expression could be difficult for a teacher to assess. I'll definitely consider using this activity in my future classroom. Lastly, I enjoy how this teacher provides some examples of how to connect dance to other subject areas. I think that this video is very refreshing in terms of creating current and engaging lessons for the primary dance unit."
- commentary from a pre-service teacher