Dances around the world

• Culturele en kunstzinnige vorming
• Middelbare school
• havo, vwo
• Leerjaar 4

Dance Around the World!

Welcome to our fascinating exploration of dances around the world!

Have you ever given much thought to the astounding variety of dance forms found throughout the world? Imagine a society in which movement connects people, conveys stories, passes on traditions, and expresses feelings in ways that words cannot always do. From the fervent rhythms of the Latin American Salsa to the elaborate patterns of Indian classical dance, we are going to go on an exciting journey. So grab a partner and Waltz through this lesson being sure to complete tasks 1-7 all while following the instructions given and being prepared to share your findings with the class. 

Be sure to check out the lesson goals before moving on!

Lesson Goals

You can explore traditional dances that represent various nations and cultures around the world. 

You can understand how some cultural dances have influenced modern dance styles.

You can compare/contrast traditional dances with more modern dances.

You can collaboratively create a presentation on a cultural or traditional dance.

Think back to a time when you listened to music and unconsciously started tapping your foot or nodding your head. Can you give an example?

How do you think cultural dances reflect the identity of a nation?

How do modern dances evolve with societal changes? Can you give an example?

Now that you have watched "Best of Favorite Dance Moves (2024)" and some traditional dances, let's discuss how the movements and expressions are either different from or are similar to more modern dances like ballet or hip-hop?

True or False

Have a read throught the statements below and then determine for yourself whether each statement is true or false and why you think this:

1. Dance is a natural reaction of our bodies to rhythmic sounds. 
2. The origins of dance can be traced back to the same time as music. 
3. Dance and music has been around from the start of humanity.
4. Dance and music are inherently connected.
5. Cultural dances are often rooted in tradition while also reflecting the history, environment, and values of a community. 
6. Cultural dances serve as a form of storytelling, preserving cultural identity.
7. Cultural dances unite communities across generations.

padlet.com

In-class assignment

Form groups of 4-6 students. Each group will be assigned a traditional dance. See questions on the next slides. You will be expected to present your findings about this dance to the rest of the class. 

Tip: divide the work and questions up amoungst group members. Every person in your group should answer a minimum of 2 questions. Search online for information. Be sure to assign someone in your group to gather the information and put the presentation together (Whiteboard, PPT, Prezi - you can decide on the presentation format as a group, as long as your presentation answers the above questions and has a clear introduction, body and conclusion).

Preparation Time: 12-15 minutes

Presentation Time: 4-6 minutes per group

In-class assigment - groups

Group 1 Dabke (Lebanon)	Group 2 Gumboot Dance (South Africa)	Group 3 Riverdance (Ireland)	Group 4 Tango (Argentina)
Group 5 Salsa (Latin America/Spain)	Group 6 Zorba's Dance (Greece)	Group 7 Line Dancing (USA)	Group 8 Kathak (India)
Group 9 Belly Dancing (Egypt/Middle East)	Group 10 Hula (Hawaii)	Group 11 Tinikling (Philippines)	Group 12 Haka (New Zealand)

sites.google.com

Questions

1. What is the dance's history and place of origin?
2. Where and when did this dance style first appear?
3. What cultural value does the dance have in its home community or country?
4. How has the dance changed over time (that is if it has changed)?
5. Which steps, movements, and techniques are typical of this dance style?
6. What kind of music is usually played while this dance is performed?
7. Which traditional clothing or costumes are worn when performing this dance and what is the significance of this clothing or costume (if any)?
8. Are the traditional clothing and costumes considered art (if any are worn)? Explain your reasoning.
9. What ceremonial or social purposes does the dance fulfill in its culture?
10. In what ways does the dance represent the culture's or the country's values, beliefs, or customs?
11. Does this dance have any particular customs or rituals attached to it?
12. Do both genders perform this dance? 

Presentations

Take 4-6 minutes per group to present your findings.

Homework

For homework, you are going to do a quick "show" rather than a "tell". Choreograph an original dance routine that blends movements and styles from your own culture with that of another culture of your choosing. Decide for yourself if you want to work on your own or in a group. Set your original dance choreography to music from your own culture then record about 30 seconds to 1 minute of your performance and send your video to your teacher. Make sure to begin your dance video with a brief description of the original dance you are re-choreographing, and which two cultures you are mixing together. Plus, mention the name of the song/music chosen. The film of your choreographed dance will only be seen by your teacher.

Evaluation

Fill in the Google Form and let me know your opinion of this lesson and if the lesson goals were achieved.

(link on next page)

forms.gle

Time over - check out these videos

Is dance an area of interest for you, then check out these videos:

1. If you want to learn more about the history of traditional dances around the world and their influence on modern dance, watch video 1.

2. If you want learn more about the evolution of dance from the 1950's until now, watch video 2.