Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the importance of staging Philippine folk dances, including their cultural significance, the elements involved in performance, and how to appreciate and possibly perform a folk dance.

Materials and Prep

• Open space for dancing
• Comfortable clothing for movement
• A notebook and pencil for taking notes
• Access to a computer or device for research (optional)

Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with a few popular Philippine folk dances, such as Tinikling and Singkil, and their historical backgrounds. This will help in guiding the student during the activities.

Activities

• Research and Discussion: Start by researching a specific Philippine folk dance. Discuss its origin, the story it tells, and its cultural significance. This will help the student understand the context of the dance.
• Movement Exploration: Choose a simple folk dance, like Tinikling, and break down the basic steps. Practice these movements together, focusing on rhythm and coordination.
• Costume Creation: Discuss traditional costumes used in Philippine folk dances. Let the student design their own costume using materials found at home, encouraging creativity and personal expression.
• Mini Performance: Set up a small performance space and allow the student to perform the dance they practiced. Invite family members to watch and give feedback, making it a fun event.

Talking Points

• "Did you know that every Philippine folk dance tells a story? Let's find out what story our dance tells!"
• "Folk dances are like windows into our culture. They show us how people lived, what they believed, and what they celebrated!"
• "The costumes in folk dances are very colorful and special. They often represent the region where the dance comes from. What colors do you think we should use?"
• "Practicing the movements helps us connect with the dance. Can you feel the rhythm in your body? Let's move to the beat!"
• "Performing for others is exciting! How do you feel about sharing what you've learned? It's a great way to celebrate our culture!"