Teaching Introductory Classes with Confidence
One of the most common questions I get is:
“I’d love to teach an introduction class, but where should I start? What should I include?”
This is such a great question! To start planning, it's essential to clarify your primary focus/goal for the class. Here are two typical scenarios:
1. A One-Time Class for a Special Event Sometimes you might be invited to teach for a non-dance-related event, like a corporate function or a party. In this case, the focus should be on getting everyone moving and having fun, without worrying too much about technique. It’s important to remember that these students are there to casually try something new and enjoy themselves. Overloading them with corrections could take away from the experience.
Formations might not even be necessary unless it’s a team-building event or something like a bachelorette party where everyone already knows each other and would be comfortable dancing together.
Your main goal in this scenario is to make sure they leave with a smile, feeling like they’ve had a unique and positive experience!
Sweet photo of a special event Introductory class I taught this weekend
2. Building Interest for Your Regular Classes If you’re offering an introductory class to attract new students, your approach might be a little different. In this case, you’ll want to give students a taste of what they can expect in regular classes by striking a balance between teaching technique and keeping them moving.
For example, you might introduce a variety of steps without spending too much time breaking each one down in detail. You could touch on the basic concept of “flock of birds” when pivoting through steps, and if time allows, introduce formations. I often have group leaders follow me during drills, encouraging followers to look to their leader rather than me. This helps ease intimidation while still teaching the general concept of formations.
In this scenario, your aim is to spark curiosity and excitement, leaving them wanting to come back for more!
What Should You Teach? Once you’ve identified the purpose and length of your class, you can start planning the content. Personally, I like to tailor my intro classes to the scenario or attendees rather than sticking to a strict week one, class one style structure. You might teach a figure 8 (taxeem), a torso rotation, or perhaps a Swivel Step (Egyptian) with a Shoulder Shimmy Hip Drop.
Above all, have fun and experiment! If you feel confident and joyful, that energy will shine through and your students will feed off it. A great class is all about creating a memorable experience together.
Resources to Help You Plan: To support you in your planning, I’m sharing two helpful resources this week:
1. 90-minute Introduction to FCBD®Style class, available for free on our YouTube channel. Feel free to watch and follow along with the structure!
2. Two-hour Intro to FCBD®Style workshop in PDF format, which you can download and adapt to your own style.
DOWNLOAD THE CLASS OUTLINE HERE
I hope these resources inspire your own teaching journey and help you feel more confident as you plan your intro classes.
Do you have other ideas or inspiration for teaching an Introductory class? I'd love to hear from you!