History of Dance at CMS
Why and how we started our dance program
Professional development
Session Objectives
Participants will leave with the knowledge, skills and confidence to teach swing dance when they return to school.
Participants will learn by doing. Have fun!!!
Standards Addressed Meets standards in Physical Education, Dance and
Performing Arts Lifelong fitness and healthy living Enjoyment Self-expression Social interaction Challenge Personal and social behavior and responsibility Choreographic process Rhythm
Who can teach dance?
EVERYONE!!! Teachers with very little dance experience to
professional dancers can have effective dance programs
Models risk taking Your enthusiasm and energy is contagious
amongst your students
Essential components for the 1st day of dance
Clear expectations High expectations and standards for ALL Everyone dances Know the dance Demonstrate finished product
Captures, motivates and inspires student learning
Identify potential pitfalls (problem students)
Pitfalls/Areas of Concern
Communication Verbal Non-verbal
• Sweatshirts• Body language (ex. rolled eyes)
Teaching Progression
Progression Step 1 Step 1 + music Step 2 Step 2 + music Step 1 & 2 + music Etc.
Stages of Motor Learning
Verbal Cognitive Stage Say it, Do it Cues are very helpful when first learning a
dance/skill Visual learners appreciate having cues on the
wall for reference
Teaching Cues
One word or syllable per step
Starting cue for Swing Rock step, ready, go
Choosing and rotating partners
Everyone participates Unequal numbers of men and women
Solo dancers Rotate often to vary partners and include solo
dancers Stand in dance position in specified area
Teaching Progression Cont. Routine format
Helps build confidence and rhythm Reduces anxiety Takes pressure off leader Teacher still provides instruction in how to lead and
follow for each move Freestyle
Once students master routine, then allow them to choose to dance freestyle
Program promotion
Get kids on board Invite administrators, teachers and
community members to observe Culminating activity
Lunchtime Dance Board presentation with student
demonstration
Swing Steps and Cues
Basic Rock step, side,
side Fly-by
Rock step, fly, by Single under
Rock step, fly, by
Swing Steps and Cues (cont.)
Catch her Rock step, catch,
her Push her
Rock step, push, her
Swing Steps and Cues (cont.) He Goes
Rock step, he goes She Goes
Rock step, she goes
London bridge Rock step, London
bridge
Swing Steps and Cues (cont.)
Pretzel Rock step, Pret-
zel Rock step, belt
buckle Rock step, single
under
Music
The Brian Setzer Orchestra Jump Jive an’ Wail
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Used for jump swing Go Daddy O