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Lesson 1 - Circus Character Movement and Dance

Creative Circus Storytelling Through Movement and Dance

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Nursery

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell exciting circus stories through movement and dance?

Learning Objectives

To move safely in space taking care of ourselves and others (heads up, eyes forward, control speed)
To use a mind map to help us move like different circus characters that we know
To develop the first 12 counts of our 'Circus' motif through creative movement

Key Outcomes

Students will create simple theme-related shapes, movements and actions
Students will contribute simple key words to an age-appropriate circus mind map
Students will translate ideas into simple circus character movements and actions

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position for clear sound throughout hall

Alternative: Portable speaker, classroom sound system

Themed Music

2-3 tracks

'Circus Clown' by The Kiboomers, 'Circus Music' by The Hit Crew Kids

Alternative: Any upbeat, rhythmic music suitable for movement

Scarves

1 per student (optional)

Available in container for students to collect

Alternative: Pom poms, streamers, lightweight fabric pieces

Sun Markers

1 set

Positioned where all students can see clearly

Alternative: Flip chart paper, interactive whiteboard

Cards

4-6 cards

Large enough for whole class to see

Alternative: Book illustrations, printed images from internet

Key Vocabulary

Circus

A travelling show with performers, animals and entertainment

Ringmaster

The person who announces and controls the circus acts

Tightrope Walker

A performer who walks on a thin rope high above the ground

Trapeze Artist

A performer who swings on bars high in the air

Balance

Staying steady and not falling over

Motif

A short pattern of movements that can be repeated

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and control
Simple copying of movements
Understanding of taking turns

Current Skills

Creating character-based movements
Moving in time with music
Working collaboratively in dance

Next Steps

Developing longer dance sequences
Creating group choreography
Performing with confidence

Milestone Indicators

Maintains balance during character movements

Shows clear differentiation between character types

Demonstrates improved timing and control

Key Teaching Points

Always emphasise safe movement with heads up and eyes forward
Use counting to establish clear timing and rhythm throughout all activities
Model enthusiastic, confident character movements to inspire students
Encourage creative interpretation while maintaining character essence
Build performance confidence through positive audience experiences
Connect physical movements to character qualities and storytelling
Use partner work to develop communication and collaboration skills

Common Misconceptions

Thinking faster movement means better performance - emphasise control and timing
Believing only 'good dancers' can participate - celebrate all movement attempts
Assuming circus movements must be dangerous or difficult - focus on safe, age-appropriate actions
Thinking audience work is passive - teach active, constructive watching skills
Believing performance is about being perfect - emphasise creativity and effort over perfection

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent movement opportunities, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive feedback and encouragement

dyspraxia

Break movements into smaller components, provide extra practice time, use peer support and modelling

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson parts, quiet space available if needed, consistent routine and structure

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of all movements, provide physical guidance for spatial awareness, use tactile markers for positions

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations, hand signals for instructions, vibrating speaker for rhythm if available

physical disability

Seated versions of all movements, upper body focus for character actions, adapted balance activities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through circus terminology, speaking and listening through partner discussions and feedback

Science

Understanding body movement, balance and coordination, exploring forces in movement

Art

Visual imagery and creativity in movement, understanding character representation through physical expression

PSHE

Building confidence through performance, respecting others' contributions, working collaboratively

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all students, stand where all can see demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for safe movement, creative expression, and inclusive participation

Intervention Points

Step in if students appear unsafe, overwhelmed, or excluded from activities

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clarity, maintain enthusiasm, ensure all students can see

Verbal Cues

•'Heads up, eyes forward!'
•'Find your own space!'
•'Show me your circus character!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or gymnasium with minimum 8m x 10m clear space

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, clear of obstacles, adequate ceiling height for jumping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Scarves/ribbons checked for tears or loose threads
•Whiteboard securely positioned

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during free movement
•Falls during balance activities
•Overexertion during energetic movements

Risk Mitigation

•Clear personal space boundaries established
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Constant supervision during all movement activities
•Regular reminders about safe movement principles

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all students during movement
•Monitor balance activities closely
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Standard first aid procedures, clear evacuation routes maintained