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Lesson 2 - Developing Whole Group Movement

Exploring Water Through Creative Movement and Expression

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Year 2

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we move like champion dancers to create flowing water movements together?

Learning Objectives

To initiate and sustain whole group movement patterns
To work safely in the dance space whilst responding to music
To explore different ways of moving like water features

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate controlled group movements
Students will respond appropriately to musical tempo and rhythm
Students will create collaborative water-themed dance sequences

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Positioned for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Phone with portable speaker

Music Tracks

2-3 tracks

Cued and ready to play - slow/flowing and fast/energetic

Alternative: Classical and contemporary pieces

Markers Cones

4-6

Mark source and mouth locations around the room

Alternative: PE spots, tape marks

Visual Aids

1-2 images

Display boards or tablet for reference

Alternative: River/waterfall pictures

Key Vocabulary

Champion dancers

Dancers who move with excellent control, rhythm and creativity

Source

The beginning or starting point of a river

Mouth

The end point of a river where it meets the sea

Flow

The continuous movement of water in a river

Rhythm

The pattern of beats in music

Tempo

How fast or slow music plays

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of moving to music
Simple body movements and actions
Basic concept of working safely in groups

Current Skills

Whole group movement coordination
Responding to musical tempo and rhythm
Creating water-themed movements

Next Steps

Complex partner choreography
Advanced musical interpretation
Leading group performances

Milestone Indicators

Sustained group movement for 30+ seconds

Clear response to musical changes

Collaborative creation without verbal instruction

Key Teaching Points

Champion dancers always move with control and awareness of others
Rivers flow from source to mouth, winding and bending naturally
Music tempo should be clearly reflected in movement quality and speed
Group collaboration requires communication, listening and compromise
Whole body engagement creates more expressive and effective movements
Creative interpretation within themes builds confidence and artistic skills
Performance skills develop through supportive audience experiences

Common Misconceptions

Rivers flow in straight lines - correct: rivers wind and bend naturally
All water moves the same way - correct: different water features have different movement qualities
Dance requires perfect technique - correct: expression and creativity are equally important
Music must dictate exact movements - correct: music inspires and guides, dancers interpret creatively
Group work means everyone does the same thing - correct: collaboration can include complementary different roles

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular movement breaks built in, clear boundaries and expectations, positive reinforcement for focus

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, partner support for complex sequences

autism spectrum

Clear sequence structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet observation option when needed

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of space, tactile markers for source/mouth locations, buddy system for spatial navigation

hearing impairment

Visual music cues through gestures, vibration awareness through floor, clear visual demonstrations of tempo changes

physical disability

Seated river movements, adapted spatial requirements, modified group roles focusing on upper body

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Descriptive vocabulary for water movements, following and giving instructions

Maths

Patterns in movement, counting beats, spatial awareness and pathways

Science

Water cycle, forces and motion, sound waves and vibration in music

Geography

River systems - source, mouth, flow patterns, natural water features

Music

Tempo, rhythm, responding to different musical styles and genres

PSHE

Collaboration skills, leadership, building confidence, celebrating achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all groups, central for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Group collaboration, musical response, creative interpretation, safety

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggling with collaboration or safety concerns arise

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated, clear movements. Model excellent listening skills. Show enthusiasm for water themes.

Verbal Cues

•'Champion dancers listen to the music!'
•'Show me big, clear movements!'
•'Work together like a team!'
•'Feel the flow of the river in your body!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, ideally school hall or large classroom

Surface Check

Non-slip surface free from obstacles, suitable for floor work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music volume at appropriate level
•Floor markers secured and visible
•No trailing wires from music equipment

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during group movement
•Slips during fast movement sections
•Overexcitement during musical activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing guidelines established and maintained
•Progressive energy building with appropriate cool down
•Regular safety reminders about personal space

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sightlines of all students
•Move around perimeter during activities
•Monitor energy levels and adjust accordingly

Emergency Procedures

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