Welcome to Dance, AITs! 🎶💃
With winter around the corner, what better way to warm up than by moving from the rhythm of music to the energy of dance! Get ready to kick off this exciting new unit in ArtsAround as we dive into Dance just before the holiday break!
Welcome to Dance, AITs!
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Since we’re shifting from Music to Dance, let’s get organized so you’re all set for a smooth start in late November/early December. A few simple prep steps now will help make this transition seamless and keep you focused on having fun with movement!
Print the BASTE Chart (pdf below)
Ask: WHO? DOES WHAT? WHERE? WHEN? HOW?
Answer: A dancer moves through space and time with energy B.A.S.T.E. BODY ACTION SPACE TIME ENERGY
Print this chart and keep it in your Dance Lesson binder. Covering Body, Action, Space, Time, and Energy, this handy chart is your go-to for understanding the Elements of Dance. It’s the foundation for the unit, so keep it at your fingertips.
Gather Your Materials
Make sure you have index cards, brown envelopes, markers, and paper clips ready. Having these supplies on hand will make setup easier, giving you more time to enjoy the lessons!
Set Up with Helpers
Find 1-2 helpers to organize each grade for you by printing dance term words onto index cards. (Need helpers? Find a classroom teacher who can connect you with available students!) When you show your helpers what to do in Grade 4, they would just repeat the same process for Grades 5-8. Each grade has its own Fundamental Concepts: Elements of Dance Chart. Your helper(s) must know how to form clearly printed letters. Show them the size of letter you want. Â
Get Organized for a Great Start
To make assessments easy, print the Fundamental Concepts & Elements of Dance Rubric page for each grade, and Creative Movement Rubric, for your binder. They’ll help you evaluate multiple students at once and keep progress tracking simple. Preparing now means more time for creativity and enjoyment as we dive into dance!
You will find your Elements of Dance rubric attached to each concepts page for your binder. This will indicate what skills to assess. You can assess several students at a time on one chart, so set that up ahead of time too. Getting organized before Dance starts makes your life easier.Â
Let’s make this unit one to remember and keep the energy high as we move toward the holiday season!
5 Keys to Creating Joyful and Engaging Dance Lessons
1. Create a Safe and Open Space – Ensure the classroom or gym is free of obstacles, giving students enough room to move freely. A comfortable, welcoming environment helps everyone feel at ease.
2. Celebrate Effort and Participation – Cheer on every student for their effort, not just their skill. Acknowledge creativity and enthusiasm to build confidence and create a positive atmosphere.
3. Adapt to Students’ Comfort Levels – Meet students where they are. If some are hesitant to dance, offer alternative roles like clapping or creating patterns. Gradually build their confidence to join in fully.
4. Keep It Lighthearted and Fun – Be playful and don’t shy away from being a little silly yourself—it encourages students to let go of self-consciousness and enjoy the process.
5. Encourage Comfortable Attire – Recommend wearing clothes and shoes that allow for easy movement. Comfortable clothing helps students focus on having fun instead of worrying about restrictions.
And lastly —Â Don’t forget to read this important information as you enter your Dance-era!
There are shortcuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them.
