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Lesson 6 - Sequences, Relationships and Performance

Storytelling Through Movement: Explorer Adventures

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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 tell the story of explorers meeting jungle animals?

Learning Objectives

To consolidate and perform sequences with extended movements showing relationships
To create movements that represent the meeting between explorer and animal
To perform sequences in both unison and canon with flowing movements

Key Outcomes

Students will perform their explorer and animal sequences with champion-level movement quality
Students will demonstrate clear relationships between their explorer and animal characters
Students will show understanding of unison and canon through their performances

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Position for clear sound coverage of whole space

Alternative: Tablet/phone with speaker

Explorer Theme Music

Playlist

Have different tracks ready for exploration and performance

Alternative: Instrumental adventure music, nature sounds

Markers

15 pairs (30 total)

Mark performance areas around the room perimeter

Alternative: Imaginary spaces, cones

Key Vocabulary

Sequence

A series of movements performed in order to tell a story

Unison

When dancers perform the same movements at exactly the same time

Canon

When dancers perform the same movements but starting at different times

Flow

When movements connect smoothly without stopping

Expression

Using your face and body to show feelings and character

Relationship

How two characters connect or interact with each other

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic explorer and animal movements from previous lessons
Understanding of character representation through movement
Experience working with a partner
Knowledge of different levels and speeds in movement

Current Skills

Consolidating and extending movement sequences
Creating movements showing relationships between characters
Performing in unison and canon
Developing flow and expression in movement

Next Steps

Creating longer, more complex dance narratives
Advanced performance skills and stage presence
Choreographing group pieces with multiple characters
Understanding formal dance structures

Milestone Indicators

Confident character portrayal through movement

Clear understanding of relationship dynamics

Ability to maintain character whilst partnering

Demonstration of performance quality

Key Teaching Points

Champion dancers stay in character throughout their performance
Flow means movements connect smoothly without stopping like water flowing
Unison is together, canon is like an echo with one following the other
Relationships between characters can be shown through movement and expression
Big, clear movements help the audience understand your story
Working cooperatively with your partner makes both dancers better
Expression in face and body brings characters to life

Common Misconceptions

That dance is only about perfect technique - emphasise story-telling and expression
That all movements must be exactly the same - encourage individual interpretation within character
That mistakes ruin performance - focus on staying in character and continuing
That only some children can be 'good' at dance - celebrate all efforts and creativity
That dance is not 'real' exercise - highlight the physical skills and fitness involved
That boys can't enjoy dance - emphasise adventure, character, and story elements

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice segments, clear role definition in pairs, regular movement breaks, positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Simplified sequences, extra practice time, buddy support, focus on effort over precision

autism spectrum

Clear sequence structure with visual supports, predictable routine, option for calmer character choices

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of all movements, buddy system for spatial awareness, tactile guidance for positioning

hearing impairment

Visual cues and demonstrations, vibrating speaker for music feeling, visual timing signals for unison/canon

physical disability

Seated or supported versions of movements, adapted animal choices, modified sequences to suit abilities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Story-telling through movement, character development, narrative structure, descriptive vocabulary

Art

Creative expression, use of body as artistic medium, visual storytelling

Geography

Exploring different environments (jungle), understanding of exploration and discovery

Music

Rhythm and timing, response to musical stimulus, performance in time with music

PSHE

Cooperation, confidence building, celebrating achievements, positive relationships

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space during practice to observe all pairs, centre position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Character clarity, flow between movements, partner cooperation, safety

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs struggling with cooperation or timing, if movements becoming unsafe

Demonstration Notes

Use yourself and confident students for demonstrations, exaggerate movements for visibility, emphasise character commitment

Verbal Cues

•'Stay in character!'
•'Make it flow!'
•'Big, brave movements!'
•'Show me the relationship!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space for partner work and performances

Surface Check

Non-slip surface suitable for dance movement, clear of obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music volume at appropriate level
•Performance space clearly marked
•Adequate space between performing pairs

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during travelling movements
•Inappropriate partner contact during sequences
•Over-excitement during performances

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair
•Emphasis on personal space and appropriate contact
•Calm, controlled atmosphere maintained throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all pairs during practice
•Monitor partner interactions for safety and appropriateness
•Ensure adequate spacing during performances

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess any issues, provide appropriate support or first aid