So, I have a question for anyone who sees this post. I am working on a new unit for TPT and since I work at an arts school and get to work with a dance, drama, visual arts and a music teacher on a regular basis these subjects have become integrated into my planning and instruction. I really had the vision to share these ideas when I started this blog but am stumped as to how to do this. I have these great ideas as how to incorporate music and dance into this ocean unit but am not sure how teachers will feel about trying out lessons where they choreograph simple dances if they can't see them in action. Also, I don't want to include an already choreographed dance because the true learning happens when students are involved in creating the movements to represent learning. So, I was wondering how other teachers would feel about this.I love trying new things but as an arts coach at my school, I know this is not true for everyone so let me know what you think.
Here's the question:
If you bought a unit packed with printables as well as ideas about how to use certain songs (song titles and artists included) along with dance ideas to teach/ reinforce a concept, would you try it? What would help you step out of your comfort zone? a video that showed an example of using the dance to teach a concept? Let me know what you think. Thanks!
Feedback...please!
Hi Erin- I am a HUGE fan of the arts, but even for me, my first thought is....ooooohnoooo! I don't know how to do that or have time to do that.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I know that it can be an amazing way for students to learn and I'm interested in it. I'd definitely want the song title and artist name, and some simple directions. A video actually showing it would be a plus, but might be too time-consuming for you.
Maybe do an "easy" freebie example to show people how accessible it is and successful they could be with it. Good Luck!
Cynthia,
DeleteThanks for your honest feedback! Most teachers I work with think it will take more time but come to see it as a way to teach a lesson rather than an add-on. With that said, I completely understand. When we were told we were going to integrate with dance during our instruction time, I was so put out that it would take up time but I soon learned to use dance as another strategy in my toolbox. I am just going to give the suggestion of song title and movement ideas for teachers who are interested but keep to the printables as well. Thanks for commenting!
I would love it! I would need very specific directions because I cannot dance...it is scary! =)
ReplyDeleteI love songs and we already do lots of songs for movement throughout the day...if those songs and movements could reinforce concepts that would be double awesome.
Right now the songs we do reinforce values and skills we are learning with Conscious Discipline.
Heather
Heather's Heart
Hi Heather!
DeleteThanks for your comment! You said you can't dance but not to worry because the kids do that part. :) They can even make up the movements that show what they've learned. Also it sounds like you are doing dance with your songs so don't sell yourself short! I hope to have the unit done soon so I can show an example. Thanks again for your feedback!
Erin