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Lesson 2 - Animal Movement Motif Development

Creative Animal Expression Through Movement and Partnership

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Year 1

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell animal stories through movement and work together in perfect time?

Learning Objectives

To develop creative movement ideas using animal-themed vocabulary as stimulus
To focus on timing and perform a completed 32-count motif in unison
To demonstrate improved coordination, balance and spatial awareness through dance

Key Outcomes

Students will create and perform the second half of their animal motif using mind map words
Students will demonstrate improved timing and unison when performing as a group
Students will show creativity and confidence when improvising animal movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position for clear sound throughout hall

Alternative: Tablet with speaker, CD player

Cards

4 sets

Place one set in each corner of the room

Alternative: Simple animal drawings, animal toys

Sun Markers

1 set

Positioned where all children can see for mind mapping

Alternative: Flipchart paper, large sheets

Music Tracks

3 tracks

Animal Action (Tumble Tots), Hakuna Matata, I'm the King of the Swingers ready to play

Alternative: Spotify playlist, YouTube playlist

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short movement phrase that can be repeated and developed

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements

Unison

When everyone performs the same movement at exactly the same time

Improvise

To create movement spontaneously without planning

Dynamics

How we use energy in our movements - fast, slow, strong, gentle

Stimulus

The starting point or inspiration for creating dance

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Students can create basic animal movements
Students understand the concept of a mind map
Students have performed the first 16 counts of their motif

Current Skills

Creating choreography using stimulus words
Performing with timing and unison
Combining movement phrases into longer sequences

Next Steps

Adding facial expressions and character to movements
Working in small groups to create choreography
Evaluating and improving dance performances

Milestone Indicators

Creates movements that clearly represent different animals

Maintains timing throughout the full 32-count sequence

Shows confidence when performing to an audience

Key Teaching Points

Always establish clear spatial boundaries before children begin moving
Count aloud consistently to develop timing and rhythm awareness
Use children's creative ideas as the basis for choreography to build ownership
Connect all movements to animal characteristics to enhance expression
Provide specific positive feedback using dance vocabulary
Allow multiple attempts to build confidence before performance
Maintain energy through enthusiasm while ensuring safety remains priority

Common Misconceptions

That there are 'right' and 'wrong' animal movements - emphasise creativity within safety
That everyone must move exactly the same - celebrate individual interpretation within unison framework
That dance is only about arm movements - encourage whole body expression
That timing means rushing - teach that timing means moving together, not faster
That performance is only for 'good' dancers - ensure all children have opportunity to perform

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, extra practice time, larger movement patterns, reduce complexity

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of movements, provide tactile guidance, ensure good contrast for visual aids

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations, hand signals for counting, vibration cues for music beats

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated position, use upper body focus, modify hopping to stepping

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through animal words, speaking and listening skills during feedback

Maths

Counting beats and sequences, understanding patterns and repetition in dance

Science

Animal movements and characteristics, understanding how different animals move

Geography

Animal habitats and where different animals live around the world

PSHE

Building confidence, working together, celebrating differences in creative expression

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the edge of the space for maximum visibility, join in demonstrations from the front

Observation Focus

Watch for creative expression, timing accuracy, spatial awareness and positive interaction

Intervention Points

Step in if children struggling with timing, provide individual support during exploration, mediate any conflicts

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Use exaggerated movements for visibility, count clearly and consistently, show enthusiasm for children's ideas

Verbal Cues

•'Find your own space like a smart animal!'
•'Listen to the beat and move with the music!'
•'Show me your animal character with your whole body!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 10m clear floor space, suitable for 30 children moving simultaneously

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip floor free from obstacles and trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Volume levels appropriate - children can hear instructions over music
•Animal cards secured in corners, no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during travelling movements
•Falls during hopping and turning movements
•Over-excitement leading to loss of control

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established before movement begins
•Personal space teaching emphasised throughout
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Regular safety reminders during transitions

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all children
•Move around space during exploration activities
•Monitor energy levels and provide rest as needed

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation routes maintained