Introduction

1. About the program

2. Program Objectives

K-6
Basic elements of community including: audience participation, pulse, call and response, conversation between dancer and drummer, story line of African dance.

7-12
To build upon the elements of program I and to broaden students’ understanding of the cultural context of the dance and its New World implications

3. About African Dance

4. Biography

Program Outlines

Elementary/Middle

• Introduction to the elements of community – audience involvement, clapping, singing, drumming, pulse

• Importance of folktales in traditional life

• Conversation between dancer and drummer

• New World adaptation of old World traditions

High School:

• Same as above, with more advanced focus of the construction of the dance/elements of performance – costume, pathways, levels, symbols
• Social/cultural influences

Pre and Post Program Activities

1. Background information for teachers

2. Elementary: movement exercises using African rhythm, dance as communication, writing prompts history and dance

2. Middle School/High School: influence of society and culture, music, improvisation

Movement Glossary