High School English language learners in an inner city high school will be able to gain confidence, be collaborative and have an opportunity to learn African dance from a local dance teacher.
English language learners will gain access to work with a local artist.
Helping to build school-community relationships within the community is important for students to find creative outlets and inspiration in their life. This 10th grade ELL class focuses on reading and writing, however in May-June, I like to focus on non-verbal communication and learning how to communicate through dance. Adding a dance unit helps to create equity in educating the whole child and to restore joy and stability in student's lives. Dance is a physical expression through movement and rhythm of relationships, feelings and ideas. Dance is deep in the heart of every culture throughout history.
I teach primarily Latino and Somali students, so I invite one-two dance teachers to teach students dances from their cultures. Students love to learn to dance as dance is therapy. I have many kinesthetic learners and dancing helps to improve focus, memory while being creative and persevering. Students loved this unit last year and they are excited to learn about dancing.
My Project
Using multiple intelligences, many of my ELL, high school students love to listen to music. Musical and linguistic intelligence helps students be creative while also integrating language. Creating their own music will provide inspiration and a unique opportunity for these urban high school students.
Ten 10th grade ELL students will have the opportunity to create music in a studio setting.
The students will learn how to record and practice performing their own material as well. They will be assisted by their teacher and music academy director.
This trip will offer a unique opportunity to make music and tell their own story in their own words.
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