Lesson 6 - Performance Review and Improvement
Circus Magic: Creative Storytelling Through Dance
•Reception
•Dance
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How can we make our circus performance the best it can be?
Learning Objectives
- To understand what makes a good performance
- To give useful feedback to our partner using dance vocabulary
- To improve our own performance based on feedback received
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform their circus sequence with improved timing and confidence
- Students will give constructive feedback using dance vocabulary
- Students will demonstrate improvement following peer feedback
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-load 'Circus Box Song' and performance music
Alternative: iPad/phone with speaker
Ensure good lighting and clear view of performance area
Alternative: Phone camera
Have rhythm sticks or shakers available if using
Alternative: Clapping hands, tapping knees
For creating performance checklist
Alternative: Large paper sheet
Mark performance area boundaries
Alternative: Spots or bean bags
Key Vocabulary
Showing your dance to an audience
Moving in time with the music beat
Different heights in movement - high, middle, low
Helpful comments about someone's performance
Showing feelings and character through face and body
Getting better at something
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Can perform basic circus movements
- Has learned a simple sequence
- Understands basic dance vocabulary
Current Skills
- Performing with timing to music
- Giving constructive feedback
- Self-evaluation and improvement
Next Steps
- Creating own sequences
- Teaching movements to others
- Advanced performance skills
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Performance is about confidence and expression, not perfection
- Use dance vocabulary consistently throughout feedback
- Celebrate improvement and effort over natural ability
- Model positive feedback language and audience behaviour
- Connect all activities back to the performance criteria checklist
- Build excitement and pride in achievements throughout
- Ensure every child feels successful and valued
Common Misconceptions
- Performance anxiety means they can't perform - provide supportive environment
- Feedback must be perfect - focus on kind, helpful comments
- Timing must be exact - celebrate attempts and improvement
- Only 'good' dancers can give feedback - everyone can notice and appreciate
- Mistakes ruin performances - emphasise effort and enjoyment
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short performance segments, movement breaks, specific roles during watching, clear boundaries
dyspraxia
- Simplified movements, extra practice time, partner support, focus on effort over precision
autism spectrum
- Clear structure for feedback, visual checklist, predictable routine, quiet reflection time
visual impairment
- Use clear verbal descriptions of performance criteria, partner guidance, tactile feedback for rhythm
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of rhythm, written feedback prompts, visual cues for timing
physical disability
- Adapted movements within capability, alternative ways to show levels, seated performance options
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Speaking and listening skills through feedback, drama and performance vocabulary
Maths
Counting beats, timing patterns, sequencing movements
Music
Moving to rhythm, understanding musical timing and beat
PSHE
Self-confidence, giving and receiving feedback, celebrating achievements
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between performance area and audience to monitor both groups effectively
Observation Focus
Watch for confidence building, feedback quality, performance improvement
Intervention Points
Step in if feedback becomes negative, support children struggling with performance anxiety
Demonstration Notes
Model excellent feedback language and positive audience behaviour throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember our checklist!'
- •'I can see improvement!'
- •'Use your dance words!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 8m x 8m clear area for group performances, viewing area for audience
Surface Check
Dry, non-slip surface suitable for dancing movements
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check music system cables are not trip hazards
- •Ensure camera equipment is secure
- •Verify percussion instruments have no sharp edges if used
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during group performance
- •Overexcitement during performances
- •Slips during travelling movements
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear performance boundaries established
- •Adequate spacing between performers
- •Monitor energy levels throughout
- •Clear audience and performance areas
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to see all performers clearly
- •Monitor emotional responses to feedback
- •Watch for fatigue during repeated performances
Emergency Procedures
Stop music immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate support