Dance Lesson Ideas

Name of Activity: Jumping Jack Mania (April '08)

Purpose of Activity: Used in the elementary or middle school setting, this combination can increase cardiovascular endurance, while at the same time incoporating rhythm and coordination challenges. Used at the high school level, this combination could be used as part of an aerobic dance routine.

Suggested Grade Level: K-12

Materials Needed: CD player, music that is between 120-140 beats per minute, portable microphone (almost a necessity in order to protect the vocal cords and still be able to cue above the music)

Recommended music: Country – “All My exs Live in Texas,” George Strait; Classical – “William Tell Overture”; Bluegrass- “She’ll be Coming Round the Mountain”, Big Smith; Pop – “See You again”, Miley Cyrus. All of these titles are available on ITunes.

Description of Idea

Variations:

You can repeat the dance as many times as you like. You can also jog between the jumping jacks or you can use your imaginary jump ropes and jump rope between each jumping jack sequence or use any other locomotor skill.

This combination can be done with the class around the perimeter of the gym area. Instead of marching/running in place, the class can run, jump, skip, hop, etc., around the gym and stop to do the jumping jack activities. On the last 8 marches the students can turn around and move in the opposite direction. Use your creativity and make it a rhythmic and cardiac challenge!