BC Education - Dance 11 and 12

Curriculum Organizers

Prescribed learning outcomes for all dance curricula (Kindergarten to Grade 12) are grouped under the following interrelated curriculum organizers:

Elements of Movement
Creation and Composition
Presentation and Performance
Dance and Society

Elements of Movement

The elements of movement —body, space, time, dynamics, and relationship—are fundamental to the art of dance. Every movement involves some aspect of the elements of movement , but one or more can be emphasized, according to the dancer's purpose. The number of ways in which these elements can be combined is virtually endless. Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 work with the elements and principles of movement, using them with increasing degrees of refinement and complexity as they gain experience and maturity.

Creation and Composition

Dance expresses thoughts, feelings, and ideas, and is developed through the creative process of exploration, selection, combination, refinement, and reflection. This process requires a nurturing environment that encourages risk taking. The study and practice of composition provide students with the foundation that supports lifelong interest in, appreciation of, and curiosity about dance.

Presentation and Performance

Dance is an art that is meant to be shared. By working toward informal presentation and formal performance, students recognize and develop both aesthetic and social values. They learn that there is a dynamic interaction between process and product. By experiencing dance as both performers and as audience members, students learn appropriate behaviour and gain the sensitivity essential for developing an appreciative performer-to-audience relationship.

Dance and Society

People dance for a variety of reasons, including:

to learn and play
to communicate
to honour rites of passage
to define, strengthen, and preserve culture and heritage
to nurture the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual self

Dance provides opportunities for students to gain an understanding of people and a respect for diverse cultures. A balanced dance program should draw on the cultural and historical wealth dance has to offer.

History influences dance and dance reflects history. Dance contributes not only to the development of self, but also to the development of society. Within the context of present-day events in local and global communities, dance becomes personally relevant for all students.

Revised: January 25, 1999

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