🎵

Lesson 1 - Nursery Rhymes Movement and Expression

Storytelling Through Movement and Creative Expression

•

Reception

•

Dance

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell the stories of our favourite nursery rhymes?

Learning Objectives

To move safely in space taking care of ourselves and others
To use nursery rhymes to inspire creative movement and expression
To develop the first 12 counts of our nursery rhymes motif sequence

Key Outcomes

Students will create simple theme-related shapes, movements and actions
Students will contribute key words to nursery rhyme discussions
Students will translate nursery rhyme ideas into movement patterns

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Positioned where all students can hear clearly

Alternative: Portable speaker with device

Whiteboards

Visible from sitting area for mind mapping

Alternative: Large paper sheets

Scarves

30 (optional)

Available for movement enhancement if desired

Alternative: Pom poms, streamers, or no props

Markers

3-4

For creating nursery rhyme mind map

Alternative: Chalk for blackboard

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short movement pattern that can be repeated and developed

Levels

The height at which we move - high, medium, or low

Timing

Moving in rhythm with the music or counting

Expression

Using our face and body to show feelings and tell stories

Dynamics

How we perform movements - fast, slow, strong, gentle

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic locomotor skills (walking, running, jumping)
Following simple instructions
Knowledge of familiar nursery rhymes

Current Skills

Creative movement interpretation
Timing and rhythm coordination
Spatial awareness and safety
Simple choreographic memory

Next Steps

Extended movement sequences
Partner and group choreography
Advanced expression and storytelling through dance

Milestone Indicators

Students move confidently to music

Clear interpretation of nursery rhyme themes

Improved coordination and timing

Demonstrates creativity in movement choices

Key Teaching Points

Always model movements clearly before asking students to copy
Use nursery rhyme vocabulary to enhance understanding and memory
Encourage creative interpretation while maintaining safety
Build confidence through positive feedback and celebration
Connect movement choices to nursery rhyme stories
Develop timing and coordination gradually
Foster respectful audience behaviour during performances

Common Misconceptions

Students may think there's only one 'correct' way to interpret each nursery rhyme
Some may believe they need complex movements to be creative
Students might think performing means they have to be 'perfect'
May assume that audience feedback should only be positive
Could think that timing doesn't matter in creative dance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Build in movement breaks, use clear structure cues, provide fidget-friendly alternatives for sitting

dyspraxia

Break movements into smaller steps, allow extra practice time, provide physical support as needed

autism spectrum

Prepare with visual schedule, allow sensory breaks, provide quiet space option if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of movements, physical guidance for positioning, use partner support system

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, tap rhythm on students' shoulders, use clear hand signals

physical disability

Adapt movements for wheelchair users, focus on upper body expression, provide seated alternatives

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Nursery rhyme vocabulary, storytelling through movement, listening and speaking skills

Maths

Counting beats and sequences, understanding patterns and repetition

Art

Creative expression through movement, interpreting stories visually through body

Music

Rhythm and timing, responding to musical tempo and mood

PSHE

Building confidence, cooperation in partner work, giving positive feedback

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to see all students, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for timing, spatial awareness, creative expression, and confidence levels

Intervention Points

Step in if movements become unsafe, provide encouragement for shy students, redirect off-task behaviour

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements clearly, use exaggerated expressions, join in with enthusiasm to model engagement

Verbal Cues

•'Heads up, eyes forward!'
•'Feel the rhythm!'
•'Use your space safely!'
•'Show me your nursery rhyme story!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum hall size 8m x 12m with clear performance area

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface suitable for jumping and floor work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music system cables positioned safely
•Scarves/props stored when not in use
•Whiteboard markers capped when finished

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during free movement
•Falls during jumping sequences
•Overexcitement leading to unsafe movement

Risk Mitigation

•Clear personal space boundaries established
•Controlled jumping with proper landing technique
•Regular reminders about spatial awareness
•Calm cool-down to reduce energy levels

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during movement
•Monitor high-activity periods closely
•Ensure quiet students are participating safely

Emergency Procedures

Stop music immediately for any incidents, assess situation, provide appropriate support or first aid