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Lesson 4 - Partner Pictures and Nursery Rhyme Actions

Storytelling Through Movement and Creative Expression

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Reception

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we work together with a partner to turn pictures into creative dance movements?

Learning Objectives

To work effectively in pairs showing good listening and cooperation skills
To use picture stimuli to create imaginative and creative dance actions
To develop fundamental movement patterns through structured warm-up activities

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully collaborate with a partner to create a 4-count dance sequence
Students will demonstrate creative interpretation of visual stimuli through movement
Students will perform coordinated actions with timing and spatial awareness

Equipment & Resources Required

Cards

8-10 different images

4 large pictures for corners, 6-8 smaller pictures for pair work

Alternative: Nursery rhyme book illustrations, printed images from internet

Music Player

Positioned for clear sound throughout space

Alternative: Laptop with speakers, tablet with external speaker

Cones

One in each corner of the space

Alternative: Coloured paper, chairs, hoops

Nursery Rhyme Music Collection

1 playlist

Pre-selected tracks ready to play

Alternative: YouTube playlist, CD collection, streaming service

Key Vocabulary

Partner

Someone you work together with to create movements

Choreography

Making up dance movements and putting them together

In time

Moving together at the same speed as your partner

Stimulus

Something that gives us ideas for our movements (like pictures)

Sequence

Dance movements that follow one after another in order

Level

How high or low our body is when we move (high, medium, low)

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic locomotor movements (walking, jumping, hopping)
Following simple instructions and copying movements
Understanding of taking turns and sharing

Current Skills

Partner cooperation and communication
Creative interpretation of visual stimuli
Synchronized movement with a partner
Basic choreographic awareness

Next Steps

Extended sequence creation (8-16 counts)
Performance to larger audiences
More complex partner work and formations

Milestone Indicators

Sustained cooperation with partner for 3-5 minutes

Clear connection between picture and movement choice

Ability to perform in unison with partner

Confidence in sharing ideas and giving feedback

Key Teaching Points

Model the picture-to-movement thinking process explicitly through think-aloud demonstrations
Emphasise that there are no wrong interpretations - creativity and effort are more important than 'correct' answers
Build partner cooperation gradually through structured activities before free creative work
Use counting throughout to develop timing and rhythm awareness essential for dance
Celebrate diverse creative interpretations while maintaining safety and appropriateness
Connect movements clearly back to picture elements to reinforce the creative process
Maintain an inclusive environment where all children feel confident to share their ideas

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: There is only one 'right' way to interpret each picture. Correction: Emphasise that different people can see different things in the same picture
Misconception: Faster movements are always better. Correction: Demonstrate that controlled, expressive movements are more effective than rushed actions
Misconception: Partner work means doing exactly the same thing. Correction: Show how partners can have different roles while working together
Misconception: Complex movements are more impressive. Correction: Highlight how simple, clear movements can be very effective and beautiful
Misconception: Making mistakes in sequences is bad. Correction: Frame mistakes as opportunities to practice and improve together

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Build in movement breaks, use clear start/stop signals, provide fidget alternatives during listening time, break activities into shorter segments

dyspraxia

Allow extra practice time for sequences, simplify movement patterns, provide visual demonstrations repeatedly, focus on effort over precision

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule of lesson structure, allow preparation time for partner selection, offer quiet space if overstimulated, use consistent routines

visual impairment

Use high-contrast picture cards, provide verbal descriptions of images, utilise tactile elements where possible, pair with sighted buddy

hearing impairment

Use visual cues for music timing, demonstrate all instructions clearly, ensure child can see teacher's face, use visual countdown signals

physical disability

Adapt movements for wheelchair users, allow seated variations of all activities, modify partner work for different mobility levels

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through nursery rhyme terminology, speaking and listening during partner work, storytelling through movement

Maths

Counting in sequences of 4, understanding patterns and repetition, spatial awareness and positioning

Art

Visual interpretation and analysis of picture cards, understanding how images convey meaning and emotion

PSHE

Cooperation and turn-taking, building confidence through performance, respect for others' creative ideas

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the room during pair work to support all children, position at front for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for creative interpretation, partner cooperation, timing development, and safe movement choices

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs struggle with cooperation, help with creative block, ensure safety during movement creation

Demonstration Notes

Use enthusiastic facial expressions, demonstrate clear counting with actions, show good partner cooperation through modelling

Verbal Cues

•'Look at your picture carefully!'
•'Count together - 1, 2, 3, 4!'
•'What part of the picture can you see?'
•'Listen to your partner's idea!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space for partner work and group formations

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential for dance movements and safe transitions

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Picture cards have no sharp edges or staples
•Music volume allows for clear instruction giving
•Cones/markers positioned to avoid collision hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during partner travel activities
•Falls during balance or level-change movements
•Overcrowding in corners during picture activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all movement activities
•Adequate spacing enforced between pairs during creative work
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Constant supervision during partner activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all pairs during creative work
•Monitor partner dynamics for any conflicts or safety issues
•Ensure equal participation and inclusion of all children

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, have emergency contacts readily available