DAN 385-F / Methods of Teaching Dance (k-12) / Spring 2026

  I Unit: Teaching Theme: Creative Dance Illustrated   Introduction   Creative Dance is a conceptual approach that develops both technical and creative skills at the same time through exploration of movement. The focus of each lesson is based on concepts to explore. II Learning Objectives   Understand the different parts of a creative dance lesson Explain the different concepts that conform the creative dance approach Gain an awareness of the benefits the creative dance method has for children and teachers Experience the planning and teaching of a creative dance lesson III Main Lesson   1 Review Mind Up Brain Breaks Brain Fitness Gratitude Journaling Positive Psychology Evidence Based Research Wellness Curriculum   Question  1 Why is the MindUp curriculum an important addition to the general curriculum of students K-12.   2 Important Definitions Movement Metaphors Conceptual Dance/Art Learning Styles: VAKT Individuation    Question ...

  I  Unit: Teaching Theme: Unit Planning   Introduction   Unit plans comprise what will be taught, how, for what purpose, and for how long. They are purposeful, clear, and well-paced plans including aligned teaching.  A unit plan, related to the curriculum plan, is what a teacher plans for a content area to achieve the learning goals, assessments and instruction in an aligned way over a number of weeks. A lesson plan, related to the unit plan, is what and how a teacher plans to deliver instruction and practice in a lesson.   II  Learning Objectives   Understand the different aspects of planning a unit Explain the benefits of unit planning Gain an awareness of the importance of unit planning Experience the process involving unit planning     III Main Lesson  1      Questions Who am I teaching? What am I teaching? How will I teach it? How will I know if the students understand?      2   ...

    Foundational Info I. AI Summary: Duration of the School Year A typical school year in America lasts for 9 to 10 months , usually running from late August or early September to late May or June. While the standard is about 180 days of instruction, the exact duration varies by state and school district. Most students have a long summer break and various holidays throughout the year.   Key details regarding the American school year: Duration: The standard academic year is roughly 9 to 10 months (approximately 9.25 months is considered a full academic year). Structure: It is commonly divided into two semesters (fall and spring) or trimesters/quarters. Start/End Dates: Schools often begin in mid-to-late August or early September and conclude in late May or June. Variations: While most schools follow this structure, roughly 10% of schools operate on a year-round schedule. Components: The year generally includes a long summer vacation, winter holidays, and a spring ...