By

Sue Russell,   Fessenden Elementary School

Play:

Let's Dance!

Topics:

Physical Activity Participation,  Student Leadership

Our school decided to take a new turn with Dance. We bought exercise balls and put them in stands and gave each student two drum sticks. Dancing to the beat of the music and using the ball as the drum, we have been able to incorporate dance, music, aerobic work-out, all in to a fun-filled class. My kids were used to Tinikiling Sticks and I have now been able to open their eyes to a different way to dance.

How did you accomplish your goals?

I had an in-service to introduce the Exercise Balls and the students and loved them! I thought this would be great for my students who seldom get to try different equipment. What a great idea it was! They simply loved to move around the Exercise Ball and them tap the ball to the beat of the music. It is important to me to find new activities to do with my students, because I want to show them as much as possible before they leave 5th grade.

How did you accomplish your goals?

I ordered the Exercises Balls but had to pay for the stands. The drumsticks were easy to obtain.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

This will become part of the student Dance and Rhythm unit each year.