Structured Dance Exploration
•Year 1
•Dance
•Position for clear audio throughout space
Alternative: Tablet with speaker, phone with external speaker
Cued to start at 17-second mark
Alternative: Any upbeat music with clear 4/4 beat
Mark starting positions in formation
Alternative: Cones, bean bags, masking tape squares
A single movement or short phrase of movements which expresses the style or theme of the dance
Creating your own dance movements spontaneously to music
The steady pulse you can hear and feel in music
Moving in time and rhythm with the music
Stretching body parts fully to create clear, big movements
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Following verbal instructions, vocabulary development (motif, freestyle, beat), expressing creativity
Counting beats to 8, understanding patterns and sequences, spatial awareness and directions
Body awareness and movement, understanding rhythm and sound, coordination and balance
Confidence building, creativity and self-expression, working cooperatively in shared space
Move around class during practice, central position for demonstrations, near music controls during performance
Watch for musical timing, movement memory, creativity in freestyle, and social interaction
Step in if students struggle with coordination, become over-excited, or need movement correction
Always demonstrate moves clearly before students attempt, use exaggerated movements for visibility, count aloud consistently
Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, ideally larger for freestyle movements
Non-slip surface essential, check for any wet or slippery areas
Stop music immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support
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