What to Look for When Choosing a Hip Hop Curriculum

Selecting the right hip hop curriculum is essential for creating a fun, educational, and inspiring experience for your dance students. Here are five key factors to consider to ensure you choose the best program for your class:

1. Authenticity and Cultural Context

Hip hop is more than just a dance style; it’s a culture with a rich history. Look for a curriculum that respects and teaches the origins of hip hop, including the foundational elements of breaking, battling and freestyle. A good curriculum will honor hip hop’s roots and empower your students with knowledge of the genre’s evolution and pioneers.

2. Skill Progression and Structure

The curriculum should provide a clear progression from beginner to advanced levels, ensuring that students build a strong foundation before moving on to more complex techniques. Look for structured lesson plans that include warm-ups, drills, combinations, and choreography tailored to your students’ skill levels.

3. Engagement and Creativity

To keep students excited, the curriculum should include opportunities for creativity and self-expression. Freestyle exercises, collaborative choreography, and room for improvisation are great ways to encourage engagement and individuality.

4. Student-Centered Approach

Every dance class has unique needs. A great hip hop curriculum is adaptable to different ages, abilities, and goals. It should emphasize student well-being, focusing on building confidence, physical health, and artistic expression while avoiding moves that may strain or harm young dancers.

5. Instructor Support and Resources

The best curriculums come with tools to help you succeed as an instructor. Look for ones that include detailed lesson plans, video demonstrations, playlists, and even teacher training modules. These resources can save you time and give you the confidence to deliver classes effectively.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hip hop curriculum sets the tone for your dance class. It’s more than just teaching moves; it’s about cultivating a love for dance, respect for the culture, and a sense of community among your students. Take the time to explore your options and invest in a program that aligns with your values and the needs of your class.

Looking for a curriculum rooted in hip hop culture that aligns with your values? Check Out The Academia’s Street Plans.