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Lesson 2 - Creative Movement and Choreography

Movement Expression

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Year 2

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use words and ideas to create expressive dance movements that tell a story?

Learning Objectives

To develop creative ideas using words from a mind map as stimulus for movement
To focus on timing and performing movements in unison
To build confidence in performing and creating dance sequences

Key Outcomes

Students will create the second 16 counts of their jungle-themed motif
Students will demonstrate improved timing and coordination in group performance
Students will show creativity and expression through movement

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Position for clear sound throughout space

Alternative: Portable speaker with device connection

Cards

4 different animals

Place one card in each corner of the room

Alternative: Printed images or hand-drawn pictures

Sun Markers

1 set

Positioned where all students can see for mind mapping

Alternative: Flip chart paper and thick pens

Music Tracks

2-3 tracks

Tracks pre-loaded and tested for volume

Alternative: 'Animal Action' by Tumble Tots, 'Hakuna Matata', 'I'm the King of the Swingers'

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short sequence of movements that can be repeated or developed

Unison

Moving at exactly the same time as others

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements

Dynamics

How we perform movements - fast, slow, strong, gentle

Levels

High, medium, and low positions in space

Expression

Showing feelings and ideas through movement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
Simple movement patterns and copying actions
Understanding of following instructions

Current Skills

Creating movements inspired by themes and words
Performing movements in unison with others
Building confidence in creative expression

Next Steps

Developing more complex choreographic patterns
Understanding musical phrasing and rhythm
Creating partner and group choreography

Milestone Indicators

Students show creativity in movement choices

Movements clearly represent the chosen theme

Students can maintain timing with music and peers

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise creativity and personal interpretation over perfect technique
Use positive reinforcement to build confidence in performance
Connect all movements clearly to jungle theme for meaningful learning
Focus on timing and unison to develop group coordination skills
Encourage respectful audience behaviour and constructive feedback
Build systematically from individual exploration to group performance
Maintain high energy and enthusiasm throughout to engage students

Common Misconceptions

There is only one 'correct' way to represent an animal through movement - encourage diverse interpretations
Timing must be perfect immediately - emphasise gradual improvement and effort
Creative dance is too difficult for young students - break down into manageable steps
Boys may be reluctant to participate in dance - use strong animal themes and inclusive language
Students need extensive dance background - focus on natural movement and creativity

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Frequent movement breaks, clear boundaries, immediate positive feedback

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, verbal prompting for sequences

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of movements, physical guidance for positioning, tactile cues for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for timing, vibration cues for music

physical disability

Seated or supported versions of movements, upper body focus, adapted equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through mind-mapping, descriptive language for movement feedback, storytelling through dance sequence

Art

Creative expression through movement, understanding composition and structure, interpreting themes visually through body

Geography

Learning about jungle environments and animals, understanding habitats and ecosystems through movement

Music

Rhythm and timing awareness, responding to musical cues, understanding musical structure and phrasing

PSHE

Confidence building through performance, collaboration and teamwork, giving and receiving constructive feedback

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to observe all students, lead from front during group activities

Observation Focus

Creative expression, safety, inclusion, timing, and coordination

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggle with creativity, safety issues arise, or timing problems develop

Demonstration Notes

Show movements with full expression and energy, count clearly for timing, model respectful audience behaviour

Verbal Cues

•'Show me your creative animal movement!'
•'Listen to the beat and move together!'
•'Use all your space safely!'
•'Make your movements big and expressive!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, suitable for 30 students moving simultaneously

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, adequate cushioning for movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music system positioned safely away from movement area
•Picture cards securely attached to walls
•No loose equipment in movement space

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during corners game and free movement
•Falls during hopping and balancing activities
•Overexertion during energetic sequences

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and movement rules established
•Adequate spacing maintained between students
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Regular breaks and controlled pace

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all students during movement
•Monitor energy levels throughout lesson
•Intervene if movements become unsafe

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, inform school procedures