Primary School
From Pre-Kindergarten through second grade,
the dance program is directly related to the classroom curriculum and movement activities are based on topics that change monthly.
Proper warm-up techniques, rhythm and perpetual motor skills, as well as creative movement concepts, are integrated into the dance curriculum. The students work individually and in groups to learn a variety of dance forms. These concepts are emphasized more in the third, fourth and fifth grades where students also work on short compositions. The teacher focuses on developing body awareness, coordination and an appreciation of the world of dance.
Middle School
Building upon their study of dance as an
art form in Primary School, Middle School students acquire an
awareness of the body as an instrument for personal expression.
They explore the principles of dance technique and composition, working on their own and in groups. To enhance the program, students view dance videotapes and the Upper School dance performance groups.
Upper School
Students can continue their study of dance in Upper School as part of their six-credit arts requirement. An introductory course exposes the students to the fundamentals of dance technique and elements of exploratory movement. Capable students who wish to pursue the study of dance beyond the introductory level have the opportunity to strengthen technical skills, experiment with choreography and perform before the public. An appreciation of dance as an art form is fostered through readings, video viewings, guest performances and field trips.