Dance promotes a recognition and appreciation of self and others. Dance also promotes basic movement and choreography in music and rhythmic contexts, independently and cooperatively with others. Dance experiences expand vocabulary, enhance viewing and listening skills and allow students to critically view the art form of dance. Creating performances and responding to dance enhances development of self-image and social relationships. Through dance older students learn the ability to communicate in a different manner other than the written or spoken word.
Students have the ability to reflect upon what is communicated through the art form of dance.
Students learn respect for their bodies through dance, which is the product of intentional and intellectual physical actions. The development of movement skills and creative and critical thinking skills is an outcome of dance education. Students will be able to integrate dance with other art forms. Dance enables a broadening of cultural and historical perspective. Understanding one s own culture and respect for dance as part of the heritage of many cultures helps in the participation of a diverse culture in today s world.