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Lesson 4 - Partner Picture Creation

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 pictures help us create amazing dance movements with a partner?

Learning Objectives

To work well in pairs showing good listening and cooperation
To use circus pictures to come up with creative and imaginative actions
To develop timing and unison through partner work

Key Outcomes

Students will create a 4-count dance action inspired by circus pictures
Students will work cooperatively with a partner to develop creative movements
Students will perform in time with music and their partner

Equipment & Resources Required

Cards

1 set of 4 for corners, plus individual cards for pairs

Laminate for durability, ensure images are large and clear

Alternative: Printed images from internet, illustrated books

Music Player

1 set

Test volume levels, have backup device ready

Alternative: Tablet with portable speaker, smartphone

Music Tracks

Multiple tracks as specified

Pre-load all tracks, create playlist for smooth transitions

Alternative: Similar tempo circus/carnival music

Open Space

Minimum 6m x 8m

Clear all obstacles, mark corners clearly

Alternative: Hall, large classroom with furniture moved

Key Vocabulary

Partner

Someone you work with to create dance movements together

Unison

Moving at exactly the same time as your partner

Count

The beat of the music we dance to - 1, 2, 3, 4

Choreography

Creating and arranging dance movements

Stimulus

Something that gives us ideas for our dance - like pictures

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic movement patterns (hopping, skipping, jumping)
Following simple instructions
Moving to music individually

Current Skills

Partner cooperation and turn-taking
Creative interpretation of visual stimuli
Unison movement and timing

Next Steps

Extended partner choreography
Leading and following skills
Performance confidence in groups

Milestone Indicators

Child initiates ideas with partner

Maintains synchronisation for 4-count phrases

Shows clear connection between picture and movement

Key Teaching Points

Model the picture-to-movement process clearly before expecting independent work
Emphasise cooperation over perfection in partner work
Celebrate all creative attempts and interpretations
Use circus theme consistently to maintain engagement
Build performance confidence through supportive audience behaviour
Connect today's learning to previous and future lessons
Focus on effort and improvement rather than comparison

Common Misconceptions

Children may think there's only one 'correct' way to interpret a picture - encourage multiple valid responses
Some may believe partner work means doing identical movements - teach complementary actions
Children might rush through creative process - emphasise taking time to observe and think
May expect immediate perfect timing - celebrate gradual improvement
Could focus only on complex movements - value simple, well-executed ideas

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Movement breaks, clear boundaries, fidget tools available during sitting time

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, visual movement prompts

autism spectrum

Visual schedule for lesson structure, quiet corner available, sensory break opportunities

visual impairment

Tactile picture alternatives, clear verbal descriptions of images, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, vibration cues for rhythm, clear sight lines to teacher

physical disability

Adapted movements within individual capability, seated alternatives, modified partner positions

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, describing movements, giving feedback to peers

Maths

Counting 4-beat sequences, spatial awareness, pattern recognition in pictures

Science

Body awareness, coordination, understanding rhythm and timing

Art

Visual interpretation skills, understanding how images convey meaning

PSHE

Partnership skills, turn-taking, celebrating others' achievements, self-confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between pairs during creative work, central position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Partner cooperation, creative connections to stimuli, safety during movement

Intervention Points

Step in when pairs struggle to cooperate or when creativity is blocked

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with enthusiasm, show both process and product, include child as partner when possible

Verbal Cues

•'Look carefully at your picture!'
•'What ideas can you share with your partner?'
•'Try to move together on the beat!'
•'Remember to start together!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 10m clear space for partner work and performance

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential for movement activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Pictures laminated to prevent tearing
•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•No sharp edges on picture mounting

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during partner movement
•Tripping during transitions
•Overstretching during flexibility work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries marked for each pair
•Controlled transitions with clear instructions
•Age-appropriate stretching guidance
•Constant supervision during partner work

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all pairs during creative work
•Close monitoring during performance activities
•Clear sight lines to entrance/exit

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide first aid, contact office if needed