This week as the students complete their Ballroom Dance & PBIS unit, they will learn two smooth dances: Fox Trot and Tango. On Thursday, the students will perform their two favorite dances for the unit for part of their grade. The unit grade will add up to 30 points: 10 for each dance, and 10 for their unit writing packet.
This fall I completed my masters degree in music education at Northern Illinois University. As part of my final project, I included a new, unique unit into my curriculum . The objective of this unit is to teach the students to Ballroom Dance in general music class as a means of improving behavior and social skills. In other words, this unit supports PBIS and the music curriculum through the vehicle of Ballroom Dance. For example, on the first lesson the students will focus on learning to dance the Rumba. However, before dancing, they must learn what it means to dance with a partner: how to ask one to dance, how to respect another's personal space, and we will discuss safety when dancing and moving in class. Then, we will study the history of the dance and the characteristics of Rumba music. Once we know our PBIS goals for the day and about the music, it's time to dance. The students will learn 2-3 dance steps each day and rotate around the class to dance with various students.
7th Grade: Musican Project due in two weeks!!! World Music Unit Continues
The week of February 21, the Musician Projects are due. This is a 100 point project!The students get to choose any musician (singer, composer, or band) to research. The students have specific questions they must answer, however, they may go above and beyond for extra credit. They will present their verbal (3-5 minutes in length) and visual (electronic or poster) presentation the week of February 21.
The students will continue their World Music Unit. They will tour around the world learning about the genres of music, instruments, and characteristics of various cultures. They will learn songs, dances, and get a chance to play or hear some of these instruments as well!
8th Grade: World Music Project: 100 points
This week, the students will begin their World Music Project. They will research the music and culture of the country they choose. Their final oral and visual presentation will be worth 100 points. Most of the work will be done in class, however, if time in class is wasted, they will need to put in extra time outside of class. The final project is due on February 15.
