How to Make the Most

How to get the most out of our Online Class Program:

Test out the technology and set up prior to your first class.
1. Make sure you have a solid internet connection and are familiar with Google Classroom and the Zoom app (if applicable for your level).
2. Find a place with adequate space to practice and get your camera/screen set up so you can easily see the screen and your teacher is able to see your full body. Ask your parent’s permission before moving furniture.
3. You may want to cast or use an HDMI cord to project the class onto the TV. If all you have is your phone, that’s ok too!
Be early to your class! It will take a little bit of time to get into the ZOOM meetings so give yourself some leeway. The teacher also has to admit you into the meeting so if you are late, you may have to wait a few minutes before being let into the room and will miss out on important information and exercises. If you are having problems please reach out to the office to help get things sorted.
Dress to impress! Even though you are taking class from the comfort of your own home, it is important to feel like a dancer! Not to mention it’s an excuse to get out of those sweatpants and PJs! Although a strict dress code won’t be enforced, the teacher still needs to be able to see your body and movement. It’s also important to have your hair in a bun and out of your face as well as wear appropriate footwear. Ideally, you will be able to wear what shoes you usually wear to class but we are aware that everyone has different flooring and want you to wear what feels the most safe!
Make a schedule! For those with LIVE Zoom classes, these are scheduled out for you but the Virtual Classes and Choreography Demos are there all week for you to do on your own time. It would be a good idea to block out time in your schedule, put it in your calendar and stick to it! It is especially important to be prepared with the choreography before each class in order to make the most of your time with the teacher. (Most classes won’t receive the Choreography Videos until the second week).
Practice self-motivation and drive. Along with continuing your dance training, this is an awesome opportunity to work on your self motivation. So much of becoming a great dancer is knowing what it takes to push yourself even when there isn’t a teacher there to give you all the notes. As you are taking your virtual classes, listen to the notes the teacher is giving and make sure you are applying all of the corrections. Think back on past corrections and apply those too. If it helps to write down a few, keep a notebook handy so you can review before your next class. Right now we have so much extra time on our hands and it's also a perfect opportunity to stretch and condition. Set goals for yourself and utilize your spare time to increase your flexibility, strength, and endurance. Exercise and stretching releases endorphins so your body and mind will thank you!
Please be patient! This is a pilot program and we are new to this type of class delivery. If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please contact the office and they can help you. Please be patient as we work out any glitches that may arise.
Have fun! We know there are a lot of stressors we are all facing right now, but dance is an amazing outlet to release stress and express ourselves.
Share! Post about your experience and inspire others to express themselves and keep active. Please tag @wasatchballet! We miss you and would love to see you working hard and having fun!