Dance education develops the students’ sensitivity and creative potential by having them draw on the principles and natural vocabulary of human movement. Students use movement as a means of self-expression and communication as they interpret, invent and appreciate dances.

Dance Competencies - Elementary

Competency 3: To appreciate choreographic works, personal productions, and those of classmates

The act of appreciation is one of examining and reflecting on a work, whether it is one's own, the work of classmates, or professional and amateur work seen outside the classroom. In the arts, teachers are often challenged by time constraints, and wonder how to fit appreciation into tight timelines. Two things to consider are:

- Keep it simple - introduce a framework and use it exclusively for a while

- Do it often - regular moments of appreciation cultivate the appreciation reflex

Keep it simple Ideas	Do it often Ideas
Use post-its on a large Venn diagram on the wall or interactive white board	Build in an appreciation moment at the very start of a project
Have students discuss in groups and share notes on a single Appreciation sheet	Have an appreciation file or station in your classroom for inspiration, and make sure students leave traces in an appreciation journal
Use the same framework for the Artist Statement for personal creations.	Build in appreciation of in-progress works, finished works at the close of a project or as projects are completed

Student Tools

Appreciating Dance (Venn Diagram) - Download

Artist's Statement (Dance) - Download

Professional Learning

MAD2 Facebook Group

A group for Quebec teachers in the Arts from the anglophone sector. Go to page

Arts Connection

Online PD for Arts educators in Quebec, hosted by MAD2. A DEEN committee initiative. Online archive available Go to folder

Spotlight on the Arts

An annual effervescent art education happening organized by the MAD2 DEEN subcommittee, featuring guest speakers, workshops in all four Arts subjects, a round-table discussion and on the spot art-making. Go to page

Professional Organizations

CODE - Council of Ontario Drama and Dance Educators
Although their resources are not directly linked to the QEP, this Ontario educators association has a very robust website and an annual conference. Go to site

AQEDÉ - Association québecoise des enseignants de la danse à l'école
A French-language organisation from UQAM with lots of Quebec-specific information Go to site

Artists in Schools

Having practicing artists and specialized art educators in your classroom enriches everyone's experience of the arts. Students deepen their practice and understanding of the Arts. Teachers expand their arts pedagogy know-how.

ELAN - https://www.quebec-elan.org
English-speaking artists and micro grants for English schools

Culture à l'école - https://cultureeducation.mcc.gouv.qc.ca/repertoire
Quebec government program and database of artists as well as cultural events and outings.

Breaking down the QEP for artists (webinar done for ELAN)