This is a skipping and sliding circle dance with 4 sets of 16 counts. The pattern changes every 16 counts; one count per skip; one count per slide.
The skills practiced are ABCD sequencing, memorization, following oral instructions, working cooperatively as a group while moving using large motor skills in rhythmic sliding and skipping. For more skills practiced, see list in the introduction.
Skill level: Age 9+
How to skip
Series of step-hops changing lead foot after hop. One knee is raised, thigh parallel to floor. Arms swing from shoulders, one forward, one back, in opposition to knee that is raised in front.
Clap: tum ta, tum ta, tum ta, tum ta
How to slide
Many variations of basic step of keeping knees slightly bent while feet slide along the floor. One foot leads, the other slides to meet it, and then the opposite foot leads. Moving side to side or forward or backward.
Arm position varies: Hands on waist; arms outstretched to sides; arms in opposition for big slides.
Clap: tum, tum, tum, tum
--Students who are taking a turn on the sideline as accompanists clap hands or a rhythm instrument once for each skip or slide.
--At the end of each set of 16 counts there is a slight pause in clapping to allow students to change direction or step.
--During skipping when not holding hands, arms swing in opposition - that means when right leg is forward, left arm is forward.
For details of the circle dance click here.
Recommended:
Kinesthetic Math and Language Lessons -
YouŽll find 33 beginning and advanced kinesthetic math and language lessons in 78 pages for kids of all abilities in grades K-6, including teaching all ages the one-hand alphabet with large photos of the letter shapes.
And, for ages 2 to 5, more than 10 kinesthetic learning lessons, plus rhythms, dances and exercises in Rhythms and Dances for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Article by Susan Kramer
