Welcome to Hillside Dance

Welcome to the Hillside Elementary Dance Department! We're so excited to share our dance program with you. Whether you're a student ready to move, a family member learning about what we do, or a staff member exploring our classes, this is your home for all things dance at Hillside.

What Students Learn in Dance
  • Creative expression and artistic exploration
  • Physical coordination, rhythm, and musicality
  • Collaboration, leadership, and communication skills
  • Confidence, self-awareness, and growth mindset
Why Dance Matters in School

Dance supports the whole child by connecting movement to academic learning, social-emotional development, and creative problem-solving. It's an essential part of a well-rounded education.

What Families Can Expect

Students attend dance class on a rotating cycle schedule. They'll learn age-appropriate choreography, explore different dance styles, take on leadership roles through class careers, and have opportunities to perform throughout the year.

How to Use This Website
  • Students: Explore class pages, practice vocabulary, and get excited about upcoming performances
  • Families: Find schedules, FAQs, and ways to support your dancer at home
  • Staff: Learn about our curriculum, philosophy, and program structure
Explore Our Classes

About Our Dance Program

Our Teaching Philosophy

At Hillside Elementary, dance is more than just movement—it's about building creativity, confidence, and connection. Every student who enters our dance space is valued, supported, and encouraged to express themselves through movement.

We believe that dance education should be joyful, inclusive, and accessible to all learners. Our program welcomes students of all abilities and backgrounds, creating a safe space where everyone can explore, grow, and celebrate their unique way of moving.

Skills Students Develop Through Dance

Through dance, students develop important life skills that extend far beyond the dance floor:

  • Rhythm and musicality
  • Spatial awareness and body control
  • Creative expression and artistic thinking
  • Physical coordination and motor skills
  • Collaboration and ensemble work
  • Communication through movement
Social Emotional Learning Connections

Dance naturally supports social-emotional development. Students learn to work collaboratively, communicate through movement, and build confidence in their bodies and abilities. They practice leadership, respect, and responsibility through our innovative class careers program.

How Dance Supports the Whole Child

Our curriculum integrates physical, cognitive, creative, and social-emotional learning. Students don't just learn steps—they develop critical thinking, problem-solving, self-regulation, and cultural awareness through movement exploration and performance preparation.

Alignment with New Jersey State Standards

Our dance program is built on the 2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Visual and Performing Arts (NJSLS-VPA). These standards ensure that all students develop artistic literacy through four interconnected processes:

  • Creating: Students explore, plan, and revise original choreography
  • Performing: Students develop technical skills and present dance works
  • Responding: Students analyze, interpret, and critique dance
  • Connecting: Students relate dance to personal experiences, other subjects, and cultural contexts

By following these state standards, we ensure that Hillside students receive a rigorous, sequential dance education that prepares them for continued arts learning in middle and high school.

Dance Curriculum Standards

Hillside Elementary Dance follows the 2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Visual and Performing Arts. These standards outline what students should know and be able to do at each grade level, ensuring a high-quality, sequential arts education for all learners.

The Four Artistic Processes

Dance education is organized around four interconnected artistic processes:

  • Creating - Generating and developing original choreography
  • Performing - Executing dance with technical and artistic skill
  • Responding - Analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating dance works
  • Connecting - Relating dance to personal experience, other disciplines, and cultural contexts

Students engage in all four processes throughout their dance education, building skills progressively from kindergarten through grade 12.

What Students Learn by Grade Level

By the End of Grade 2:

  • Explore movement and solve movement problems
  • Create simple dance sequences
  • Perform basic locomotor and non-locomotor movements
  • Describe observed dance movements
  • Connect movement to emotions and experiences

By the End of Grade 5:

  • Develop original choreography using multiple sources of inspiration
  • Perform with technical proficiency and artistic expression
  • Analyze dance using appropriate vocabulary
  • Understand dance in cultural and historical contexts
  • Connect dance learning to other subjects

By the End of Grade 8:

  • Create complex choreography with clear artistic intent
  • Demonstrate genre-specific technique and performance quality
  • Critique dance using established criteria
  • Research how dance reflects societal and cultural perspectives
How Elementary Dance Prepares Students for Middle and High School

The skills students develop in elementary dance create a strong foundation for continued arts education:

  • Grades K-5: Students develop basic literacy in dance, learning fundamental vocabulary, techniques, and concepts
  • Grades 6-8: Students choose to specialize in dance (or another art form) and develop competency in their chosen discipline
  • Grades 9-12: Students work toward proficiency in dance, with opportunities for accomplished and advanced level work

Students who complete our elementary program enter middle school with the skills needed to succeed in more advanced dance classes.

Why Standards Matter

State standards ensure that:

  • All students receive equitable access to quality arts education
  • Dance instruction is rigorous, sequential, and developmentally appropriate
  • Students develop transferable skills like creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking
  • Elementary dance prepares students for lifelong engagement with the arts
  • Dance education is valued as an essential part of a well-rounded education

Meet Your Dance Teacher

Ms. Cool

Hello, wonderful dancers and families! I'm Ms. Cool, and I'm thrilled to be your dance teacher here at Hillside Elementary. With over 15 years of experience in dance education and a deep commitment to inclusive instruction, I bring energy, creativity, and care to every class.

My teaching approach centers on meeting each student where they are and helping them discover the joy of movement. I believe every child can dance in their own unique way, and my job is to create a space where they feel brave enough to try, confident enough to grow, and supported enough to shine.

Dance matters because it teaches us to express feelings we can't put into words, to work together as a team, and to celebrate our bodies and what they can do. I can't wait to dance with you this year!

Our Dance Classes

Our dance program offers a variety of classes that rotate by cycle throughout the year. Each class is designed to meet students where they are and help them grow as dancers, learners, and leaders. Click on any class below to learn more about what we do!

CI Dance Grade 3

Inclusive dance for third graders focusing on creative movement, rhythm, and joyful participation

CI Dance Grade 4

Building on foundational skills with more complex rhythms and group choreography

CI Dance Grade 5

Advanced creative movement with leadership opportunities and performance skills

Intro to Dance

Foundational dance skills, rhythm basics, and building confidence through movement

Modern/Ballet

Technique-focused class exploring ballet foundations and modern expression

Play Production Dance

Ensemble choreography for school performances and storytelling through movement

Each class page includes detailed information about what students learn, class structure, and how families can support at home.

CI Dance Grade 3

Welcome, Third Grade Dancers!

CI Dance for Grade 3 is all about discovering what your body can do and having fun while moving! In this class, we explore creative movement, learn to move to different rhythms, and work together as a dance community. Every student participates in a way that feels right for them, and we celebrate all the different ways people can dance.

What We Are Learning

  • Basic dance elements: space, time, and energy
  • Following rhythms and musical patterns
  • Creative improvisation and expression
  • Spatial awareness and body control
  • Cooperative movement activities
  • Building confidence through play

Class Structure and Expectations

Each class begins with a warm-up led by our Warm-Up Leaders, followed by skill-building activities, creative exploration time, and a cool-down with our Calm Coach. We rotate through different stations and activities to keep movement fun and engaging.

Students work individually, with partners, and in small groups to develop both independence and teamwork skills.

[Coming Soon: Practice videos and photos from class activities]

New Jersey Standards for Third Grade Dance

By the end of second grade, students in New Jersey are expected to:

  • Explore movement in response to various stimuli (music, imagery, stories)
  • Create movement sequences with a beginning, middle, and end
  • Perform movements using different directions, levels, and pathways
  • Demonstrate body awareness, balance, and coordination
  • Describe what they observe in dance performances

Our Grade 3 curriculum builds on these foundations and prepares students for the Grade 5 benchmarks.

CI Dance Grade 4

Welcome, Fourth Grade Dancers!

Welcome to CI Dance for Grade 4! This year is all about leveling up. We build on the creative movement skills you developed in third grade and begin working with more detailed rhythms, clearer shapes, stronger teamwork, and more intentional choreography choices. In this class, every dancer is supported, celebrated, and challenged in ways that feel safe, joyful, and exciting.

What We Are Learning

In Grade 4 CI Dance, students grow as dancers through technique, creativity, and collaboration. We focus on:

  • More complex rhythm patterns and counting (including tempo changes)
  • Clear use of space: pathways, directions, formations, and spacing
  • Stronger body control: balance, coordination, and precision
  • Expressive performance skills: facial expression, focus, and energy choices
  • Creating choreography with a beginning, middle, and end
  • Working in small groups to build dances together
  • Taking feedback and revising movement to improve it
  • Building confidence, leadership, and respectful dance room habits

Creating, Performing, Responding, Connecting

Our Grade 4 learning connects to New Jersey's dance standards through four artistic processes.

Creating

Students improvise, make movement choices with purpose, and build short choreographic phrases using prompts like images, stories, music, and emotions.

Performing

Students practice dance technique and perform class choreography with growing control, timing, and confidence.

Responding

Students describe what they see in dance, reflect on their own work, and give kind, specific feedback using dance vocabulary.

Connecting

Students connect dance to their own lives, the world around them, and learning across subjects like ELA, math (patterns), science (energy), and social studies (culture and community).

Class Structure and Expectations

Each class includes consistent routines so dancers feel confident and ready to learn:

  • Warm Up led by student leaders to build strength, flexibility, and focus
  • Skill Building across rhythm, locomotor skills, levels, balance, turns, and transitions
  • Choreography Lab where we practice phrases, formations, and group transitions
  • Creative Challenge using improvisation prompts and partner or group tasks
  • Cool Down and Reflection to reset our bodies and name our growth

Students will work independently, with partners, and in small groups. We practice being supportive teammates, safe movers, and brave learners.

New Jersey Standards Connection for Grade 4

Grade 4 is the bridge year where students move from foundational dance exploration toward the stronger fifth grade benchmarks in choreography, performance quality, vocabulary, and cultural connections. Our Grade 4 CI Dance curriculum is designed to steadily build those skills through joyful, inclusive instruction.

CI Dance Grade 5

Welcome, Fifth Grade Dancers!

Fifth grade dance is where everything comes together! Students work on advanced creative movement, take on significant leadership roles, and prepare for performances with confidence and skill. This is the year dancers truly shine as they apply everything they've learned and mentor younger students.

What We Are Learning

  • Advanced dance technique and artistry
  • Choreographic composition and design
  • Leadership through class careers
  • Performance preparation and stage presence
  • Cultural and historical dance contexts
  • Peer mentorship and teaching skills
  • Self-assessment and goal-setting

Dance Skills and Concepts

Students master terms like canon, unison, retrograde, levels, pathways, and choreographic devices. They understand how to use these concepts to create interesting and meaningful dances.

Class Structure and Expectations

Fifth grade classes are student-led and teacher-guided. Our class careers are in full effect, with students managing warm-ups, music, demonstrations, and peer support.

We spend time on complex choreography, improvisation challenges, and creating original movement. Students also reflect on their growth throughout the year and set personal dance goals.

How Families Can Support at Home

Celebrate your dancer's leadership! Ask about their class career and what they're teaching others. Support performance preparation by helping with any costume needs and attending shows. Acknowledge their growth from where they started to where they are now.

[Coming Soon: Practice videos and photos from class activities]

New Jersey Standards for Fifth Grade Dance

  • Creating: Use multiple sources of inspiration to develop original choreography with clear artistic intent
  • Performing: Execute movements with technical proficiency, musicality, and expression
  • Responding: Analyze and critique dance using appropriate terminology
  • Connecting: Understand how dance relates to culture, history, and global issues

Our Grade 5 curriculum ensures students meet these benchmarks and are prepared for middle school dance education.

Intro to Dance

Welcome to Intro to Dance!

Intro to Dance is perfect for students who are just beginning their dance journey or want to build a strong foundation in basic dance skills. This class is all about exploration, building confidence, and discovering the joy of movement in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

01

Building Basics

We start with fundamental movement skills: walking, running, jumping, skipping, and galloping with control and awareness.

02

Rhythm & Music

Students learn to hear and move to different beats, tempos, and musical styles, developing their musicality.

03

Creative Expression

Through improvisation and guided activities, dancers explore their own unique way of moving.

04

Confidence Building

We celebrate every success, big or small, helping students feel brave and capable in their bodies.

1

What We Are Learning

  • Body awareness and control
  • Following directions in movement
  • Basic dance vocabulary
  • Moving safely in shared space
  • Expressing ideas through movement
  • Working cooperatively with others
2

Class Structure and Expectations

Intro to Dance is welcoming, playful, and encouraging. We use games, stories, and creative prompts to make dance accessible and fun for everyone.

No prior dance experience is needed—just a willingness to try and a positive attitude!

3

How Families Can Support at Home

Encourage your dancer to move at home! Play music and dance together. Ask them to show you what they learned. Celebrate their bravery in trying something new. Remind them that everyone starts as a beginner, and practice helps us grow.

[Coming Soon: Practice videos and photos from class activities]

Modern/Ballet

Welcome to Modern/Ballet!

Modern/Ballet combines the grace and technique of classical ballet with the expressive freedom of modern dance. This class is perfect for students who want to develop stronger technical skills, learn proper alignment and form, and explore both structured and free-form movement styles.

1

What We Are Learning: Ballet Foundations

Students learn classical ballet positions, basic barre exercises, and center work. We focus on posture, turnout, pointed feet, and graceful arms while building strength and flexibility.

  • Five basic positions
  • Pliés, tendus, and relevés
  • Port de bras (carriage of the arms)
  • Ballet vocabulary in French
  • Proper alignment and placement
2

What We Are Learning: Modern Expression

Modern dance allows students to explore contraction and release, floor work, and expressive movement. We connect to emotions and tell stories through our bodies.

  • Contraction and release
  • Floor work and rolling
  • Improvisation with structure
  • Breath and movement connection
  • Emotional expression through dance
3

Class Structure and Expectations

Each class includes a ballet warm-up, technique practice at the barre or in center, modern dance exploration, and combination work that blends both styles. We finish with stretching and cool-down.

4

How Families Can Support at Home

Encourage practice of basic positions and movements at home. Ask your dancer to demonstrate what they learned. Support their technical growth by celebrating small improvements in form and alignment. Attend performances to see how ballet and modern styles come together beautifully.

5

What to Wear

Students should wear comfortable clothing that allows for full movement. Bare feet or ballet shoes work well. Hair should be pulled back from the face. Avoid jewelry that could catch during movement.

[Coming Soon: Practice videos and photos from class activities]

Play Production Dance

Welcome to Play Production Dance!

Play Production Dance is where dance meets theater! This exciting class focuses on creating choreography for school performances, learning ensemble work, and bringing stories to life through movement. If you love performing, collaborating, and being part of something bigger than yourself, this class is for you!

1

Storytelling Through Movement

We learn to use dance to tell stories, express character emotions, and enhance the narrative of our school play.

2

Ensemble Choreography

Students work as a team to learn, memorize, and perform choreography as a unified group.

3

Performance Preparation

From blocking to tech rehearsals to opening night, we practice all aspects of being a professional performer.

1

What We Are Learning

  • Learning choreography quickly and accurately
  • Staying in character while dancing
  • Formation changes and stage awareness
  • Dancing with props or costumes
  • Performing with energy and commitment
  • Supporting fellow cast members
2

Class Structure and Expectations

Play Production Dance requires commitment and responsibility. Students are expected to attend all rehearsals, practice at home, and come prepared with their materials.

We focus on teamwork, positive attitudes, and supporting one another throughout the entire production process.

3

How Families Can Support at Home

Help your dancer practice choreography at home. Support their commitment by ensuring they attend all rehearsals. Help with any costume or prop needs. Attend performances to celebrate their hard work. Encourage them when rehearsals feel challenging—remind them they're part of something special!

4

Performance Etiquette

We learn to be respectful audience members, celebrate each other's performances, and handle stage nerves with confidence. Performance is about sharing our art and having fun together!

[Coming Soon: Rehearsal videos and performance highlights]

Dance Class Careers

One of the most special parts of Hillside Dance is our Class Careers program! Each student has the opportunity to take on leadership roles that help our dance community run smoothly. These careers teach responsibility, teamwork, and confidence while making every class member an important part of our success.

Class careers give every student a chance to lead, contribute, and feel ownership of our dance community. These roles build confidence, teach responsibility, and help students develop skills they'll use throughout their lives. Students rotate through different careers so everyone gets to try different leadership roles.

DJ of the Day

Manages music for class, including starting and stopping songs, adjusting volume, and helping choose practice music. This role teaches tech skills and timing!

Learning Specialist

Helps demonstrate movements, supports peers who need extra guidance, and leads small group activities. A true teacher in training!

Calm Coach

Leads cool-down activities, guides breathing exercises, and helps create peaceful transitions. Our resident mindfulness expert!

Hype Squad

Brings positive energy, encourages classmates, and celebrates everyone's efforts. The official cheer leader and mood booster!

Students rotate through careers every few weeks, so everyone experiences different types of leadership.

More Dance Class Careers

Tech Specialist

Manages any technology we use in class, from tablets to projectors. Helps troubleshoot tech issues and keeps equipment organized and ready to use.

Secretary

Ms. Cool's right hand! Takes attendance, helps organize materials, delivers messages, and assists with class management. The number two leader in our dance space.

Love Coach (RJ Junior)

Practices restorative justice by supporting peers through conflicts, offering encouragement, and helping create a caring classroom community where everyone feels valued.

Care Leaders

Maintain our dance space by organizing equipment, cleaning when needed, and making sure our room is ready for learning. They take pride in our shared space!

Warm-Up Leaders

Lead the class through warm-up exercises at the beginning of each session. They demonstrate proper form and help everyone get their bodies ready to dance safely!

How Students Grow Through Class Careers

Class careers help students develop leadership skills, take ownership of their learning environment, and contribute meaningfully to our dance community. Every role is important, and careers rotate regularly so everyone gets a chance to try different responsibilities throughout the year. Students learn that being a good dancer also means being a good leader, helper, and friend!

Performances & Showcases

Sharing Our Art with the Community

Performing is one of the most exciting parts of being a dancer! Throughout the year, students have opportunities to share what they've learned with families, friends, and the school community. Performances help dancers build confidence, celebrate their hard work, and experience the joy of presenting their art to an audience.

Upcoming Performance Opportunities
  • "Once Upon a Dream" (March)
  • Annual Dance Recital (June)
  • Family Dance Night (TBA)
  • End-of-Year Celebration (TBA)
  • Special assemblies and events (TBA)
What Students Are Preparing

Students will rehearse their performance pieces during regular class time. As the performance date approaches, we may have additional rehearsals to practice on stage, work with lighting, and prepare for the big day.

Families will receive detailed information about performance dates, times, costume requirements, and arrival instructions well in advance.

The Performance Process

01

Learn Choreography

Students learn and practice their dances during regular class time over several weeks.

02

Rehearse & Refine

We practice performing with energy, expression, and precision. Students learn stage positions and timing.

03

Tech Rehearsal

We practice on the actual stage with lights, music, and costumes to prepare for performance conditions.

04

Perform & Celebrate

Showtime! Students share their hard work with the audience and celebrate their accomplishment together.

Performance Expectations and Etiquette

We teach students to be professional, respectful performers. This includes staying focused backstage, supporting fellow dancers, bowing with the group, and handling mistakes with grace. We also practice being good audience members when watching other performers.

Costume & Attire Information

Performance costumes are usually simple and affordable. We'll communicate costume needs at least 3-4 weeks before the performance. If cost is ever a concern, please reach out—we'll work together to find a solution!

[Coming Soon: Performance highlight videos and photos]

Calendar & Important Dates

Stay up to date with all of our dance events, performances, and special activities! Mark these important dates on your family calendar so you don't miss any of the excitement. We will send reminders as events approach, but having everything in one place helps everyone plan ahead.

Upcoming Events

How to Stay Updated

Specific dates, times, and event details will be shared via email, school newsletters, and posted on this website as they are confirmed throughout the year. Check back regularly for updates! You can also reach out to Ms. Cool directly with any questions about upcoming events.

1

January

2

February

3

March

4

April

5

May

6

June

What to Do if the Schedule Changes

Sometimes events need to be rescheduled due to school closures, facility issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. If a date changes, families will be notified immediately via email and school communication channels. We'll always provide as much advance notice as possible.

[This calendar will be updated throughout the year with specific event dates and details]

Dance Vocabulary Library

Learning the language of dance helps students communicate about movement, understand choreography, and grow as dancers. This vocabulary library includes important dance terms organized by style. Students, feel free to explore these words and practice using them when talking about dance!

How to Use This Vocabulary Page

Students can explore vocabulary by dance style on the following pages. Try to use these words when talking about what you're learning in class! Families can quiz students on definitions or ask them to demonstrate movements. Teachers can reference these pages when introducing new concepts.

Why Vocabulary Matters in Dance

Knowing dance vocabulary helps students learn choreography faster, communicate clearly with teachers and peers, and understand what makes different dance styles unique. It's like learning the alphabet before you can read—vocabulary gives dancers the tools to express themselves and grow.

The following pages contain vocabulary for:

  • Ballet
  • Jazz
  • Modern
  • Lyrical
  • Choreography & Inspiration

[Coming Soon: Video demonstrations and interactive vocabulary games]

Ballet Dance Vocabulary

This page provides foundational ballet vocabulary to help students understand and perform movements with precision and artistry.

How to Practice Ballet Vocabulary

Try saying the French term out loud, then demonstrate the movement. Practice in front of a mirror to check your form. Quiz yourself or have a family member test you. Remember: ballet vocabulary is in French, so pronunciation takes practice!

Essential Ballet Terms

Plié

A bend of the knees while keeping the body upright.

Tendu

Stretching the foot along the floor until the leg is straight and pointed.

Dégagé

A quick brush of the foot off the floor.

Rond de Jambe

A circular movement of the leg.

Passé

One foot placed at the knee of the standing leg.

Sauté

A jump that starts and ends with both feet.

Jeté

A leap from one foot to the other.

Grand Battement

A large kick of the leg.

Développé

Slowly lifting and extending the leg.

Balancé

A rocking step from side to side.

Pirouette

A turn on one foot.

Chassé

A traveling step where one foot chases the other.

Chainé

A series of fast traveling turns.

Changements

A jump that switches feet in the air.

Arabesque

Standing on one leg with the other leg stretched behind.

Allongé

Lengthening the arms or legs.

Frappé

A sharp striking movement of the foot.

En Croix

Performing a movement front, side, back, side.

Coupé

One foot placed at the ankle of the other.

Glissade

A gliding step close to the floor.

Relevé

Rising onto the balls of the feet.

Waltz

A traveling step pattern in 3 counts.

6 Positions of the Feet

The basic foot placements in ballet.

*[Coming Soon: Video demonstrations of each ballet term]*

Jazz Dance Vocabulary

This page provides foundational jazz vocabulary to help students understand and perform movements with dynamic energy and style.

How to Practice Jazz Vocabulary

Jazz is all about attitude and energy! Practice each movement with confidence and style. Try adding your own personality to the movements. Remember: jazz dance is expressive, so don't be afraid to perform!

Essential Jazz Terms

Jazz Walk

A stylized walk with rhythm and attitude.

Brush

A sweeping motion of the foot along the floor.

Isolation

Moving one body part while the rest stays still.

Chassé

A traveling step where one foot chases the other.

Chainé

Fast traveling turns.

Pirouette

A turn on one leg.

Fan Kick

A kick that sweeps in a half circle.

Flick

A sharp kick that bends and straightens quickly.

Jazz Hands

Hands spread wide with fingers extended.

Jazz Split

A split position used in jazz style.

Jazz Square

A four step pattern that makes a square.

Pivot Step

Turning by twisting on one foot.

Body Roll

A wave that moves through the body.

Parallel

Feet facing forward, not turned out.

Turn Out

Legs rotated outward from the hips.

Ball Change

A quick shift of weight from one foot to the other.

Drag

Pulling the foot along the floor.

Pencil Turn

A straight, tight turning position.

*[Coming Soon: Video demonstrations of each jazz term]*

Modern Dance Vocabulary

This page provides foundational modern dance vocabulary to help students understand and perform movements with expressive energy and intention.

How to Practice Modern Vocabulary

Modern dance is about connecting breath to movement and expressing emotion through your body. Practice each movement slowly at first, then explore different dynamics (sharp, smooth, strong, soft). Remember: modern dance values authenticity and personal expression!

Essential Modern Terms

Alignment

How the body is stacked and balanced.

Articulation of the Spine

Moving the spine one part at a time.

Curve

A rounded shape of the spine.

Straight

An upright, lengthened spine.

Contract

Pulling inward through the core.

Release

Letting the body open after a contraction.

Suspension

A pause or hang in movement.

Under Curve

A deep rounded shape.

Spiral

A twisting movement of the spine.

Swing

A loose, pendulum-like motion.

Dynamic

The energy or quality of movement.

Leap

A jump traveling through space.

Prance

A playful, lifted step.

Hop

A jump from one foot to the same foot.

Slide

A smooth traveling step.

Skip

A step hop pattern.

Weight Shift

Moving weight from one body part to another.

Weight Sharing

Supporting weight with a partner.

Expand

Growing larger in space.

Reach

Extending the body outward.

Parallel

Feet pointing forward.

Point / Flex

Stretching or pulling the foot.

*[Coming Soon: Video demonstrations of each modern dance term]*

Lyrical Dance Vocabulary

This page provides foundational lyrical dance vocabulary to help students understand and perform movements with depth, grace, and storytelling.

How to Practice Lyrical Vocabulary

Lyrical dance is about connecting movement to emotion and music. Practice each movement while thinking about the story you want to tell. Use your face, eyes, and entire body to express feeling. Remember: lyrical dance is deeply personal and expressive!

Essential Lyrical Terms

Emotion

Showing feelings through movement.

Intention

Moving with purpose.

Extension

Lengthening arms or legs fully.

Floor Work

Movements done on or near the floor.

Floor Spin

A turn performed on the floor.

Floor Scoot

Sliding movement on the floor.

Floor Jump

A jump starting or ending on the floor.

Pantomime

Acting out a story without words.

Axel

A turning leap.

Emotion & Gaze

Where the eyes go to support expression.

*[Coming Soon: Video demonstrations of each lyrical dance term]*

Choreography & Inspiration Terms

This page provides foundational choreography vocabulary to help students create and perform their own dances with intention and creativity.

How to Use Choreography Vocabulary

These terms help you create your own dances! When making choreography, think about: What counts am I using? What pathways will I travel? What levels will I explore? What shapes will my body make? Where does my inspiration come from? Experiment with these concepts to make interesting dances!

Essential Choreography Terms

Counts

Numbers used to time movement.

Pathways

The direction movement travels.

Levels

High, medium, and low movement.

Shapes

Forms the body makes.

Momentum

Energy that keeps movement going.

Inspiration

Ideas that create movement.

Ask Ms. Cool if you want to explore any of these concepts further in class or create your own choreography!

*[Coming Soon: Video examples of choreographic concepts in action]*

Dance & Academic Connection

How Dance Supports Learning Across Subjects

Dance isn't just an art form—it's a learning tool that reinforces academic skills in fun, embodied ways. When students dance, they're actually practicing math, literacy, science, and social studies concepts through movement. Here's how dance connects to other areas of learning!

Math Connections

Dance is full of math! Students count beats, create patterns, work with spatial relationships, understand symmetry and asymmetry, measure timing, and divide movements into fractions. Choreography is applied mathematics!

Literacy Skills

Dance develops sequencing, following multi-step directions, using descriptive language, understanding narrative structure, and interpreting symbols. We also "read" movement the way we read words on a page.

Science & Body Systems

Through dance, students learn about anatomy, how muscles work, balance and physics, cause and effect in movement, and how the body responds to exercise. Dance makes science tangible and personal!

Social Studies & Culture

Dance connects students to different cultures, historical periods, and communities. We explore how dance reflects cultural values, tells historical stories, and brings people together across differences.

21st Century Skills Developed Through Dance

Beyond traditional academics, dance teaches critical 21st-century competencies: creativity and innovation, collaboration and communication, critical thinking and problem-solving, self-direction and initiative, and social and cross-cultural skills. These are the abilities students need to thrive in our rapidly changing world!

Dance as an Academic Subject

Dance is not just an extracurricular activity—it's an academic subject with rigorous learning standards, just like math, science, and language arts. The New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Dance outline specific skills and knowledge students must develop at each grade level.

Dance education develops:

  • Artistic literacy: The ability to create, perform, respond to, and connect with dance
  • Technical proficiency: Mastery of movement vocabulary and body mechanics
  • Critical thinking: Analysis and evaluation of artistic works
  • Cultural awareness: Understanding of dance across time, place, and tradition

By treating dance as a core academic subject, we ensure students develop deep, lasting skills that transfer to all areas of learning and life.

Dance is an academic subject that supports learning across the curriculum while developing the whole child.

Building Confidence Through Dance

How Dance Helps Students Grow

Dance is so much more than learning steps and performing on stage. It's a powerful tool for building confidence, self-awareness, and resilience in young learners. When students dance, they develop a positive relationship with their bodies, learn to express themselves authentically, and discover they're capable of more than they thought possible.

Physical Benefits of Dance
  • Improved coordination and balance
  • Increased strength and flexibility
  • Better posture and body awareness
  • Enhanced gross motor skills
  • Healthy physical activity habits
  • Understanding body capabilities
Social-Emotional Benefits of Dance
  • Building self-confidence and self-esteem
  • Developing creativity and expression
  • Learning cooperation and teamwork
  • Managing performance anxiety
  • Practicing resilience through challenges
  • Celebrating individual differences

Cognitive Growth

Dance strengthens memory, pattern recognition, sequencing skills, and spatial reasoning—all critical for academic success.

Emotional Intelligence

Through dance, students learn to identify and express emotions in healthy ways and develop empathy for others.

Social Skills

Collaborative choreography and group performances teach communication, compromise, and working toward common goals.

How Families Can Encourage Confidence

Focus on your child's effort and unique strengths rather than comparing them to others. Remind them that every dancer's journey looks different. Celebrate small victories and encourage them to take healthy risks in trying new movements!

Inclusion & Accessibility

Dance for Every Body

At Hillside Elementary, we believe that every student can dance. Our CI (Culturally and Individually Inclusive) Dance classes are specifically designed to welcome and support students of all abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles. We adapt movements, provide multiple ways to participate, and celebrate the unique way each dancer moves.

Universal Design

We structure lessons so that all students can access the content. This means offering choices, multiple entry points, and different ways to show learning. Students can participate at their own level and still be part of the group experience.

Modifications & Adaptations

If a student needs movement modifications due to physical, sensory, or learning differences, we work together to find solutions. Dance can be adapted for wheelchairs, sensory needs, and different ability levels while maintaining joy and challenge.

Celebrating Differences

We teach students that there's no single "right" way to dance. Different bodies move in different ways, and that diversity makes our dance community richer and more interesting. We honor and celebrate what makes each dancer unique.

How We Support All Learners

Our teaching approach includes visual demonstrations, verbal cues, hands-on guidance (with permission), written instructions, peer modeling, and flexible participation options. We believe in meeting each student where they are and helping them grow from that starting point. If your child has specific needs or accommodations, please communicate with me so we can partner together for their success.

Questions About Accessibility?

I'm here to help! Let's work together to ensure your child has a positive, supported experience in dance class. Please reach out to discuss any specific needs, concerns, or accommodations that would help your dancer thrive.

Dance Resources & Inspiration

Continue the Dance Journey Beyond the Classroom

Want to keep exploring dance at home? Here are some wonderful resources, videos, and ideas to inspire continued learning, creativity, and joy in movement. These resources are student-friendly and family-appropriate!

Online Dance Videos

Check out kid-friendly dance channels on YouTube like Go Noodle, The Learning Station, and educational dance companies. These offer fun movement breaks and simple choreography to learn at home.

Books About Dance

Visit your library for picture books and chapter books about dancers! Some favorites include "Firebird" by Misty Copeland, "Tallulah's Tap Shoes," and "My First Ballet Class." Reading about dance inspires dancers!

Live Performances

Attend local dance performances, school shows, and community theater productions. Seeing live dance inspires students and shows them the possibilities of what they can create and achieve.

Dance Playlists

Create family dance playlists with a variety of musical styles—classical, jazz, hip-hop, world music, and more. Explore how different types of music inspire different types of movement!

Local Dance Studios

If your child wants more dance training, I'm happy to recommend quality local studios. Many offer trial classes so students can explore different styles like ballet, tap, jazz, or hip-hop.

Creative Dance Activities to Try at Home

Try freeze dance, create a family dance, make up moves to favorite songs, have a living room dance party, choreograph a dance to tell a story, or challenge family members to movement games. The possibilities are endless when you combine music, imagination, and willingness to move!

Tips for Practicing at Home

Remember, the goal is joy and creativity—not perfection! Home dance practice should be fun, stress-free, and centered on exploration and expression. Let your child lead, celebrate their creativity, and join in the fun!

Growth Mindset in Dance

Embracing Challenges & Celebrating Progress

In our dance program, we practice a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication, effort, and practice. We teach students that making mistakes is part of learning, challenges help us grow, and everyone progresses at their own pace. This mindset transforms how students approach not just dance, but all areas of their lives.

Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset in Dance

Fixed: "I can't do this move. I'm just not a good dancer."

Growth: "I can't do this move yet, but I'll keep practicing and improve!"

Fixed: "This is too hard. I give up."

Growth: "This is challenging, which means my brain is growing!"

Fixed: "They're better than me. I'll never catch up."

Growth: "I can learn from watching them and improve my own skills."

How We Build Growth Mindset in Class
  • Celebrate effort and progress, not just results
  • Normalize mistakes as learning opportunities
  • Use encouraging language like "not yet" and "keep trying"
  • Set personal goals for growth
  • Reflect on what we learned from challenges
  • Share stories of dancers who persevered
  • Practice self-compassion and patience

The Growth Mindset Process

01

Try Something New

Students attempt a challenging movement or skill, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

02

Struggle & Learn

They practice, make mistakes, and discover what works and what doesn't through experimentation.

03

Reflect & Adjust

Students think about what they learned and what they can do differently next time.

04

Celebrate Growth

We acknowledge progress—even small improvements—and recognize the courage it took to keep trying.

How Families Can Support Growth Mindset

Help your child develop a growth mindset by praising effort ("I'm proud of how hard you practiced") rather than just talent ("You're a natural"). Encourage them to see mistakes as information, not failures, and remind them that everyone starts as a beginner!

Thank You for Being Part of Our Dance Community!

Together, We Create Magic Through Movement

Thank you for taking the time to explore the Hillside Elementary Dance Department website. Whether you're a student excited to dance, a family member supporting your dancer, or a staff member learning about our program, we're grateful you're here.

Dance has the power to transform lives—to build confidence, express emotions, create community, and bring pure joy. Every time students step into our dance space, they're not just learning steps; they're discovering who they are, what they're capable of, and how they can positively contribute to the world around them.

Our Promise to Students

We will always see you, value you, and celebrate your unique gifts. You will have a safe space to try, fail, learn, and grow. Your voice and body matter here, and we can't wait to see what you create!

Our Promise to Families

We will communicate openly, support your child's individual needs, and partner with you to nurture their growth. Your trust in this program means everything, and we'll honor it every single day.

100%

Commitment

We give our whole hearts to every student, every class, every day.

18+

Years Experience

Bringing decades of dance education expertise to Hillside Elementary.

Every

Student Valued

Not just some—EVERY student is seen, heard, and celebrated here.

This website is a living resource that will grow and change throughout the year. Check back regularly for updates, photos, performance information, and new resources. And remember—my door (and inbox) is always open. Let's make this an incredible year of dance, growth, and joy together!

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul."

— Martha Graham

Let's dance, Hillside!

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