4/15/2026 - Week 14 / MNeeting 24: Teaching Theme: Halprin and Other Teachers

 

I 


Unit: Teaching

Theme: Halprin and Other Teachers

 

Introduction

Today's class introduces several dance teachers who have a wealth of experience in the field of dance education. Ana Halprin gives advice to teachers about how to avoid burn outs.  Ricky Hinds explains the importance of including dance in the curriculum. Professor Andre Isaacs uses dance to teach Chemistry to his students at the College of the Holy Cross.

 

II 

Learning Objectives 

 

  • Understand the different ways dance can be a part of the curriculum
  • Explain the importance of using self-maintenance to avoid burn outs
  • Gain an awareness of the variety of subjects for which dance can be a complement
  • Discuss these ideas with other members of the class 

 

III

Main Lesson

 

1

Mini-lessons


(5:54 - 6:39)

Question 1

What does Halprin advise to avoid teaching burn out? 

 


 Question 2

According to Hinds, how should dance be included in the dance curriculum? 

 


 Question 3

Why is this teacher using dance in the classroom?

 

IV

A Note to Remember 

 "I see dance being used as communication between body and soul to express what is too deep to find words." —Ruth St. Denis

 

Question 4

What is the meaning of this quote? 

 

V

Case Study 

 Read the Preface (Page vii)

Complete Guide to Primary Dance 

 https://www.google.com/books/edition/Complete_Guide_to_Primary_Dance/ep3qAgAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Dance+in+the+curriculum&printsec=frontcover

 

Question 5 

Lyn Paine in the Preface explains why dance is such a special subject. Summarize the main reasons why Paine thinks dance is so unique.

 

VI


Students' Work 


Kyle Urdan
Lesson

Lesson Plan
 Title: Animal Movement & Games
 Grade Level: 1st


I. Warm-Up (3 Minutes)

Goal: Elevate heart rate and engage imagination through movement.

Movement:
 Stretching
 Teacher calls out different animals and students move like that animal.

Examples:
 Frog → jumping
 Bear → heavy walking
 Bird → flapping arms
 Snake → slithering

Focus: Big movements, creativity, and quick reactions.


II. The Work: Movement & Reaction Game (17 Minutes)

Goal: Develop listening skills, reaction time, and spatial awareness through play.

Activity: Musical Chairs (17 mins)

Instructions:
 Chairs are set up in a circle (one less than the number of students).
 Students walk or dance around the chairs while music plays.
 When the music stops, students must quickly find a chair and sit down.
 The student without a chair is out for that round.
 Remove one chair each round and continue until one winner remains.

Coaching Points:
 Stay alert and listen closely for when the music stops
 React quickly but safely
 Move with control (no pushing or rushing into others)
 Be aware of space around you

 

 

-----------------------------------

 

 
Jackson Bass

1.

Halprin suggests that teachers need to take care of themselves and stay connected to their own creativity. This means not overworking, taking breaks when needed, and continuing to explore movement for themselves so teaching doesn’t feel draining or repetitive.

2.

Hinds believes dance should be fully included in the school curriculum just like any other subject, not treated as something extra. It should be accessible to all students and used as a way to support learning, creativity, and expression across different areas.

3.

The teacher is using dance to help students understand other subjects, like chemistry, in a more engaging and hands-on way. Movement makes learning more interactive and helps students connect with the material in a different and more memorable way.

4.

The quote means that dance is a way to express feelings and ideas that are hard to put into words. It connects the body and emotions, allowing people to communicate on a deeper level beyond just speaking.

5.

Paine sees dance as unique because it combines physical movement with creativity and personal expression. It allows students to learn through their bodies, not just their minds, and helps build confidence, awareness, and communication skills. Dance is also flexible and can connect to many different subjects, making it a powerful and well rounded form of learning.

 

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