Get Creative with Water Forms: Dance Teaching Ideas for “The Rhythm of the Rain”

Welcome to this week’s freebie! Get ready to explore the exciting world of water through movement and imagination. This lesson plan is inspired by the beautifully illustrated book “The Rhythm of the Rain” by Grahame Baker-Smith. These ideas will help your students engage with the National Standards of Dance, encouraging them to CREATE, PERFORM, RESPOND, and CONNECT with dynamic water forms.

Exploring Water Through Dance

Start this creative adventure by gathering your class and reading aloud “The Rhythm of the Rain.” As the students dive into the enchanting story, encourage them to pay attention to the various forms of water presented—like raindrops, rivers, and waves. This engaging experience lays the groundwork for a rich exploration of dance and movement.

After reading, let’s jump into a hands-on activity! Provide each student

with two water form cards that illustrate different types of water mentioned in the story. For example, one card might depict falling raindrops, while another shows a meandering river. Next, hand out a worksheet where students can compare and contrast these water forms. They will document distinctive traits, such as the quickness of raindrops or the smoothness of river flow. This blend of visual and written activities encourages students to connect water and dance in a meaningful way.

Connecting Movement with Water Forms

Once students have completed their worksheets, it's time for them to create unique movement phrases! Encourage them to think about how each water form can inspire specific movements. For instance, raindrops could translate into quick, bouncy movements, while waves might inspire large, flowing gestures.

Ask students to develop three

distinct movement phrases based on their worksheets. One phrase could represent raindrops, another for rivers, and a third that captures the essence of both forms. To foster deeper understanding, showcase the elements of dance around the room and present guiding questions like: “What shape does your water form create?” or “How does your water form move through space?” Having these prompts will deepen their reflection on how movement can express different qualities.

The Importance of Transitions and Performance

Integrating transitions is essential for creating a smooth performance. Encourage students to think about how one movement can lead to another, ensuring their choreography flows naturally. Once they're comfortable with their routines, arrange for a performance where they showcase their dances to classmates or partners. This opportunity not only highlights their creativity but also builds confidence and camaraderie within the class.

Honoring Creativity in Dance

“The Rhythm of the Rain” serves as an inspiring foundation for exploring the magic of water through dance. This lesson connects students with the beauty of nature while nurturing creativity and cooperation. With these dance teaching ideas, educators can inspire students to think critically about how movement evokes the qualities of different types of water.

We hope you enjoy this week’s freebie! May it spark joy and creativity in your dance class. We would love to see your students' performances and the unique ways you bring these ideas to life!

Keep Dancing!

-Whitney