Definition and Types of Dance – Basic 1 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (Second Term)

Dance is moving your body to music. It is a form of art, and we use our whole body when we dance. Dance makes us happy and healthy. There are five types of dance: traditional or folk, modern, social, religious and creative dance.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• say what dance is;
• name the parts of the body we use in dance and how we move them;
• name the five types of dance and give examples;
• state some importance of dance.

What is dance?

• Dance is moving your body to music.
• Dance is a form of art.
• We use our whole body when we dance.
• Dance makes us happy and healthy.

Which parts of the body do we use in dance?

• Head: we nod and turn it.
• Arms: we wave and swing them.
• Legs: we jump and kick.
• Waist: we bend and twist it.
• Feet: we stamp and tap them.

What are the types of dance?

1. Traditional or folk dance

• These are dances from our culture.
• Examples: Bata dance, Swange, Atilogwu.
• They are done during festivals.
• Dancers wear traditional costumes.

2. Modern dance

• These are new style dances.
• Examples: Hip hop, Ballet.
• They use modern music.
• They are popular with young people.

3. Social dance

• These are dances at parties.
• Examples: Disco, Salsa.
• Everyone can join.
• They are fun and easy.

4. Religious dance

• These are dances in church or mosque.
• They include praise and worship dances.
• They are done to honour God.

5. Creative dance

• We create our own moves.
• There are no fixed steps.
• We use our imagination.

Why is dance important?

• Entertainment: dance is fun to watch.
• Exercise: dance keeps us fit and healthy.
• Communication: dance tells stories and passes messages.
• Cultural identity: traditional dances show our culture.
• Happiness: dance brings joy and makes people happy.
• Celebration: we dance at special events.

Evaluation

Multiple choice exercise. Choose the correct answer.

1. Dance is moving our body to _____.
   a) sleep
   b) music
   c) food
2. Bata is a _____ dance.
   a) modern
   b) traditional
   c) foreign
3. We use our _____ when dancing.
   a) only head
   b) only legs
   c) whole body
4. Dance keeps us _____.
   a) sick
   b) fit and healthy
   c) lazy
5. Religious dance is done to honour _____.
   a) no one
   b) God
   c) money

Assignment

1. Dance to a song at home.
2. Draw someone dancing.
3. Learn one traditional dance step from your parents.
4. Tell one importance of dance.