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Lesson 4 - Circle Dance

Movement & Music Fusion

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Reception

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Dance

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40 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to create patterns and rhythms in a circle formation?

Learning Objectives

To move with control and coordination in a circle formation
To copy and repeat dance actions, linking them together in sequence
To understand counting and timing in dance movements

Key Outcomes

Students will perform simple dance movements in time with music
Students will demonstrate improved coordination through rhythmic actions
Students will work together in a circle formation showing spatial awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Base Stations

Arrange in a large circle around the room with even spacing

Alternative: Hoops, cones, or poly spots

Music Player

Position centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Tablet with external speaker, phone with amplifier

Track

1 track

Cue track ready for immediate play

Alternative: Any clear version of the song, or sing without music

Key Vocabulary

Circle formation

Standing in a ring shape with everyone facing the centre

Counting

Using numbers to keep time with the music

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another

Coordination

Making different parts of your body work together smoothly

Travelling

Moving from one place to another

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body part identification from previous lessons
Simple travelling movements like marching and skipping
Understanding of personal space

Current Skills

Coordinated movements in time with music
Copying and linking movement sequences
Working as part of a group formation

Next Steps

Creating own dance sequences
Partner and group choreography
Performing to an audience

Milestone Indicators

Maintains rhythm for 8+ counts consistently

Transitions smoothly between different movements

Shows awareness of others while moving in formation

Key Teaching Points

Always emphasise safe landing technique with bent knees and controlled movements
Use clear counting and rhythm to support children with timing difficulties
Maintain circle formation integrity throughout all activities
Encourage expressive movement while maintaining technical safety
Build confidence through repetition and positive reinforcement
Connect movements to familiar concepts like star shapes and body parts
Model enthusiasm and energy to maintain engagement throughout lesson

Common Misconceptions

Children may think dancing requires perfect coordination - emphasise effort over perfection
Some may believe they need to move fast to be good dancers - teach controlled movement
Children might think patterns must be identical - allow individual expression within structure
May assume jumping higher is better - focus on safe, controlled movements
Some may think they can't dance if they make mistakes - celebrate learning and improvement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break sequences into shorter chunks, provide movement breaks, use high energy activities constructively

dyspraxia

Simplify movement patterns, allow extra practice time, use larger, slower movements initially

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule of dance sequence, allow fidget tools during reflection, offer quiet space if needed

visual impairment

Use verbal cues and physical guidance, ensure consistent base station positions, provide tactile markers for circle formation

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for timing, vibration cues if available

physical disability

Seated versions of movements, modified reaching patterns, upper body focus for wheelchair users

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, learning new vocabulary, expressing preferences and opinions

Maths

Counting beats and sequences, understanding patterns and repetition, spatial concepts of circle formations

Music

Rhythm and timing, responding to musical phrases, understanding beat and tempo

PSHE

Working cooperatively, taking turns, showing respect for others' efforts, building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the circle formation to observe all children, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for coordination, rhythm, spatial awareness, and group cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in when children struggle with sequence memory, safety issues arise, or group loses formation

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated, clear movements for visibility, maintain enthusiasm and energy, show both correct technique and safety considerations

Verbal Cues

•'Soft knees for safe landings!'
•'Remember to look where you're reaching!'
•'Stay with the music beat!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large open space minimum 8m x 8m, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Non-slip surface suitable for jumping and travelling movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Base stations secured and stable
•Music volume allows teacher instructions to be heard
•Equipment stored safely when not in use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during circle travelling
•Falls during jumping movements
•Fatigue affecting movement quality

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing guidelines established
•Proper jumping technique taught and monitored
•Regular breaks and hydration opportunities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all children
•Move around circle to monitor individual technique
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, contact parents/school nurse if needed