Points of
Curricular Integration of Living Rhythms Programs This document quotes the curriculum requirements of the state of North Carolina, however, we have found that requirements like these are similar in many states. To expand [the]
horizons of the young child as students inquire into physical and social
environments . . . developing positive concepts of self and others. Social
Studies Requirement, Gr. 2, North Carolina Standard Course of Study (NCSCS) We accomplish this by exposing students to music, dance and stories of the African Diaspora, and engaging them in an interactive dialogue in which they discuss the social and cultural role that drumming and dancing play in African cultures "To grow in
self-reliance . . . become more sensitive to and accept the feelings of others
. . . [and] begin to understand the concepts of interdependence,
responsibility, and individual worth." Social Studies Requirement, Gr.
2, NCSCS In the interpersonal and interactive units of our workshops, we structure our teaching so that in learning African drumming, dance and storytelling, students realize that they each have a unique individual expression, that they can accept differences in others, and that their own individuality can be expressed in a way that contributes to a group. "Instrumental
experiences . . .movement . . . [and] responses to more complex rhythms."
Music Requirement, Gr. 2, NCSCS Learning drumming, dancing and storytelling challenges students to learn develop skills on new instruments and modes of dance, as well as sharpen their rhythmic development. "To examine
societies dissimilar to those of the West in such a way as to broaden their
understanding of people and places in an increasingly interdependent
world." Social Studies Requirement, Gr. 7, NCSCS This is accomplished by exposing students to music, dance and stories of the African Diaspora, and engaging them in an interactive dialogue in which they discuss the social and cultural role that drumming, dancing and storytelling play in African cultures. "To be more
knowledgeable about the areas studied -- the people, their culture, and their
values . . . gain an understanding of and respect for cultural pluralism . . .
participate in group learning activities, and have an increased sensitivity to
the feelings of others." Social
Studies Requirement, Gr. 7, NCSCS By getting a first-hand taste of the joy and togetherness of drumming, dancing, and storytelling - three arts that live at the heart of African culture - students gain direct insight into the lives of a different people. |