Lesson 8 - Puddle Movement Expression
Musical Movement Storytelling
•Year 1
•Dance
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How can we use our bodies to tell the story of puddles and raindrops through dance?
Learning Objectives
- To show changes in expression, level and shape through movement
- To move confidently and safely in their own and others' space
- To create and remember simple dance sequences with appropriate timing
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate appropriate movements for different dance ideas
- Students will perform basic body actions using counts and rhythm
- Students will show dynamic and expressive qualities in their dance performance
Equipment & Resources Required
Spread evenly around teaching area with space between each hoop
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or imaginary circles marked with cones
Test volume levels before lesson - should be clear but not overwhelming
Alternative: Any gentle, rhythmic music suitable for creative movement
Position where all students can hear clearly, with easy access for teacher
Alternative: Tablet, phone, or CD player with good speakers
Key Vocabulary
Using your face and body to show feelings or tell a story
How high or low your body is - high level (standing), medium level (crouching), low level (on floor)
The form your body makes - can be small and tight or big and wide
A series of movements performed in a specific order
Numbers used to keep time in dance - usually counting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Moving quickly from a small shape to a big shape, like a firework
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic spatial awareness and moving without collisions
- Simple jumping with two feet
- Following basic instructions and counts
- Understanding of high and low levels
Current Skills
- Controlled jumping with one or two feet
- Creating and remembering 8-count sequences
- Using facial expressions to convey meaning
- Transitioning between different shapes and levels
Next Steps
- Complex dance sequences with multiple sections
- Partner and group choreography
- Advanced expression and storytelling through movement
- Understanding rhythm and musical phrasing
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise safe jumping technique with bent knees throughout all activities
- Connect all movements to the puddle and raindrop story for meaningful learning
- Use clear counting and timing to support sequence development
- Encourage facial expressions to enhance storytelling and engagement
- Create supportive performance environment where all students feel confident
- Link movement vocabulary to understanding of shapes, levels, and timing
- Balance individual creativity with structured learning objectives
Common Misconceptions
- Students thinking louder or faster movement is always better - emphasise control and expression
- Belief that dance must be perfect - focus on personal improvement and enjoyment
- Assumption that creativity means no rules - explain structure supports creativity
- Thinking boys shouldn't express emotion in dance - encourage all students to show feeling
- Idea that audience should be silent - teach appropriate appreciation and encouragement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent movement breaks, use high energy activities positively, clear boundaries
dyspraxia
- Simplify sequences, provide extra practice time, use visual and physical cues, celebrate effort over perfection
autism spectrum
- Provide visual sequence cards, maintain predictable routine, allow quiet space if overwhelmed, use clear structure
visual impairment
- Use verbal descriptions for all movements, provide tactile guidance for shapes, partner support for spatial orientation
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations and hand signals, provide vibro-tactile music experience, clear visual cues for timing
physical disability
- Adapt movements for seated or limited mobility, focus on upper body expression, modify jumping to arm movements
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development (expression, explode, sequence), storytelling through movement, descriptive language
Maths
Counting in sequence to 8, understanding patterns and repetition, spatial awareness and directional language
Science
Understanding of gravity (raindrops falling), forces in jumping and landing, body movement and coordination
PSHE
Confidence building through performance, respect for others' creativity, cooperation during group activities
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter during activities for optimal observation, central position for demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for safe jumping technique, creative expression, sequence memory, and positive peer interaction
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe movement observed, provide encouragement for nervous performers, assist with sequence memory
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate movements clearly and enthusiastically, emphasise facial expressions, model appropriate audience behaviour during performances
Verbal Cues
- •'Soft landings with bent knees!'
- •'Show me that expression on your face!'
- •'Remember your 8 counts!'
- •'Make your shapes really clear!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, ideally larger hall or gymnasium
Surface Check
Clean, dry, non-slip surface essential for jumping activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check hoops are flat with no raised edges or cracks
- •Ensure adequate spacing between hoops (minimum 2m apart)
- •Test music equipment volume and clarity before lesson
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during warm-up jogging
- •Falls during jumping activities
- •Overexertion during dance performance
- •Trips over hoops during movement
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear movement boundaries established
- •Emphasis on controlled, safe jumping technique
- •Regular reminders about spatial awareness
- •Progressive skill building from simple to complex
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during active phases
- •Monitor jumping technique throughout lesson
- •Watch for signs of fatigue during extended activities
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply appropriate first aid, seek additional help if needed