Dance education at Noosa District SHS provides another mode of learning and a means of identifying and developing special interests, needs and talents not emphasised in other educational areas.
The dance program is designed to give students the opportunity to develop their self-expression and increase their imagination and artistic awareness. Students will study various genres and styles of dance and will have the opportunity to choreograph, perform and appreciate their dance works and that of other choreographers.
Creative and problem-solving abilities are fostered to communicate personal expression of ideas and feelings through dance. The study of dance, widens a students' understanding of their own culture as well as other cultures and the world at large.
The enjoyment and self-satisfaction that students gain through the study of dance is unique. Students will achieve fulfilment through the physical expression of a creative idea which builds self-confidence and physical ability. Quality dance classes can improve students' self-esteem as well as their mental and physical well-being to enhance their quality of life.
Outline of topics:
Year 11 (Applied Subject)
| Unit 1 | Unit 2 |
| The study of Musical Theatre with an emphasis on performance skills. Tap dance will also be explored during this unit. | The study of a significant Australian's life through the exploration of contemporary dance genre. |
- Performance – Musical Theatre
- Project
- Choreography- Musical Theatre
- Written –
Choreographer's Notes | - Performance – Contemporary Dance
- Project
- Choreography-Australian Contemporary Dance
- Written – Choreographic Processes Journal
|
Year 12 (Applied subject)
| Unit 3 | Unit 3 | Unit 4 | Unit 4 |
| Study the importance of dance in music video clips. Students create their own music video clip. | The study of dance trends through the ages. Students particularly focus on the dance trends of the 40s, 50/60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and present day | This unit explores the teaching of dance to young children. Students will create a 40 min workshop for kindergarten students. | The examination of personal and social issues explored through the contemporary genre. |
- Performance – Music Video Clip
| - Project –
- Dance Era choreography
- Written critique
| - Project –
- Teaching Component
- Written folio of work
| - Project –
- Choreography of social issue
- Written dance review of other dance works
|
Skills and awesomeness including excursions/events/trips:
The skills students acquire in a dance class are numerous. Firstly, students' learn self-motivation, self-confidence and self-fulfilment. The dance class is a safe environment where students can build on their confidence and sense of place. The community atmosphere that is developed in a dance class is one that the students' cherish. Secondly, students learn tolerance, empathy, and the necessary social skills to work effectively to become a valued team member. Students have to problem solve with class members to achieve success in the dance class. Thirdly, students develop their creativity and imagination. Students are encouraged to think 'out of the box' in order to explore personal and social issues through dance. Concentration skills are also established in order to be successful in the dance class. And lastly, dance heightens awareness of, and develops respect for the body and increases the quality of a person's physical well-being through strength and flexibility technique. Not all students will pursue a career in dance, but the skills they acquire throughout the course are life skills that students will find beneficial in all employment avenues.
Opportunities to perform include:
- Musical every second year
- Creative Showcase every second year
- Parade performances
- Fusion Festival
- Harmony Day
- Celebration of Excellence
- Excursion to Kindergarten
Career pathways:
Performer, Choreographer, Director, Actor, Model, Event Management, Teacher (school or studio). Dance Therapist, Sports Trainer, Pilates/ Yoga instructor, Outdoor Education Officer, Occupational Health Therapist, Sport and Exercise Science.