Dance

Dance is a unique form of moving that holds various meanings for each of us, depending on how and why dance is a part of our lives. Dance can be taught as a discrete subject, as a component of the physical education or arts program, or as a component that is integrated with a Unit of Enquiry in the school. In all of these contexts, regardless of the type of dance that is taught, dance exists simultaneously as an art form and a movement form.

The in-school dance curriculum focuses a lot on the posture and technique of the students. This gives them a firm foundation which stays firm for different dance styles and gives them a high level of physical fitness. The dancers are expected to develop a good combination of strength, flexibility and grace. The students get a chance to try out different dance forms which helps them understand what they enjoy more and also breaks the monotony. Initially they focus on good co-ordination of different body parts and slowly move on to learn dance combinations such as pirouettes, step ball change, chasse’ etc. Later they move into higher level of training which includes jumps , rolls, barre’ work ,body conditioning, partnering and further floor work.

 The dance activities at Pathways are planned, with the intention of giving all students opportunities to discover and develop their abilities in movement in various artistic ways. The idea is also to help them understand and appreciate works of arts. Students not only learn dance steps and vocabulary, but also create, explore and understand the significance of movement. In school , children get an opportunity to show case their performance potential at various occasions such as special assemblies, yearly Founder’s Day Celebrations and at other significant events. Movement is also a great way to teach them concepts and ideas that they study in their classrooms. Dance makes the regular ideas more interesting and visual, hence making them stay with the child longer. Dance and movement is experiential. Keeping this in mind, from time to time suitable U.O.I’s are worked out and developed with the children in the dance lesson. They enjoy and understand simultaneously.

Children also learn about the art form by watching and appreciating it. This is done by showing them dance movies, informing them about other artists, group discussions and by encouraging them to watch performances available in their own city.

Sushant Ummat

Dance Teacher