West Clay Elementary School – ADVANCED DANCE PERFORMANCE (L)

Apr 2026 · 2nd Semester

This is a year-long performance course designed for advanced-level dancers. Advanced sequential and systematic learning experiences are provided in the genre areas of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, and Ethnic-Folk movement. Activities utilize a wide variety of materials and experiences and are designed to develop techniques appropriate within the dance genre, including individual and group instruction in performance repertoire and skills. Students develop the ability to express their thoughts, perceptions, feelings, and images through movement. The Dance Program offers students opportunities to experience the highest levels of physical prowess, technique, flexibility, and the study of dance performance as both an artistic discipline and a form of artistic expression. Learning activities and experiences develop the student’s ability to: ● understand the body’s physical potential, technical functions, and capabilities; ● understand and assimilate the basic elements of technique within the genre offered; ● demonstrate an understanding of the varied styles within the genre; ● develop listening, comprehension, and memorization skills; ● use simple to complex and compound dance patterns within the genre; ● identify and use, both orally and in writing, appropriate terminology related to style and technique; ● understand musical phrasing, rhythmic structures, and meters. Students can describe, analyze, interpret, and evaluate live and recorded dance performances by professional dancers and companies within the genre. Students become aware of the vocational opportunities in the areas of choreography and dance.