The Primary School Dance Book – Willi Ederle

The Primary School Dance Book by Willi Ederle is a practical teaching and learning resource designed for educators who want to introduce children to the enjoyment of dance and movement. It can be used in primary schools as well as kindergartens, preschools, special education settings, dance schools, and clubs. The book is particularly helpful for less experienced dance group leaders looking for structured ways to teach dance.

The book presents 16 dances to traditional and modern music, ranging from traditional and folk-inspired dances to contemporary and quieter dance activities. Numerous illustrations by Irmtraud Guhe support the descriptions and make the movement sequences easier to understand.

A central focus is the methodology of teaching dance to children. Willi Ederle introduces different approaches that can be adapted to the needs of each group. These include imaginative dance stories, creative exploration, role play, and various ways of simplifying movement. Sequences can be slowed down, repeated, reduced to their essential elements, or divided into smaller sections.

The repertoire includes dances such as Stop Dance, Rabbit Polka, Robber Dance, Crab Polka, Seven-Step, Splash Polka, Basket Dance, and Vampire Dance, together with dances using contemporary music such as Lollipop, Snow, Girlfriend, and music by Culcha Candela.

By combining ready-to-use dances with practical teaching methods, The Primary School Dance Book provides useful material for creating engaging and age-appropriate dance activities for children.

Contents

Foundations

• Foreword
• General Conditions
• Fundamentals of Teaching Dance
• Methods of Teaching Dance
• How to Use This Book

The Dances

1. Stop Dance
2. Rabbit Polka
3. Three Silk Stockings
4. Robber Dance
5. The Miller
6. Crab Polka
7. Seven-Step
8. Splash Polka
9. Basket Dance
10. Vampire Dance – Lollipop by Mika
11. On Stage – Snow by Red Hot Chili Peppers
12. Sailing Trip with Friends – Girlfriend by Avril Lavigne
13. Party Bus – music by Culcha Candela
14. Carolan’s Welcome
15. Blessing Dance – The Blessing Nigun by Giora Feidman
16. Farewell Marian

Who Is This E-Book For?

This e-book is suitable for primary school teachers, kindergarten and preschool educators, children’s dance teachers, dance educators, dance schools, clubs, and dance group leaders looking for practical and creative ways to introduce children to dance and movement.