arts-integrated education

The Zephyr Model
The Zephyr Dance model of arts integrated education is built on the fact that each unit is unique, designed to meet the academic needs of an individual classroom. Using the creative process (specifically the process Zephyr uses to create its award winning choreography) to understand academic content, Zephyr has developed a model of individual units for individual classrooms. Zephyr creates a structure in the classroom, specifically adapted to the level of the student, that effectively communicates the arts and the curriculum. It has been Zephyr’s experience over the past 15 years that this model of arts integrated education leads to the most effective learning.

Performance is one aspect of a complete dance experience, but it is not the primary objective of an arts integrated unit. Performance comes as a result of a creative process in which dance and curriculum are balanced. The performance is not for the audience, it is for the students. In sharing their creative work, the students experience a synthesis, reinforcing their learning and striving to work to a defined standard.

Assessment is also an important part of the Zephyr model of arts integration. While the Zephyr model operates on the premise that dance includes people of all abilities it does NOT mean that the art form cannot be assessed. Assessments and standards are determined by the level of each class and are tailored to the unit. Those assessments are designed to be consistent with the abilities of the group, and are re-focused for each new group the company teaches.

If you are interested in learning more about the Zephyr Model contact:

Zephyr Dance
773-489-5069
zephyr@zephyrdance.com