Lesson 4 - Using Props in Dance
Character Storytelling Dance
•Year 3
•Dance
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How can props transform and enhance our storytelling through dance?
Learning Objectives
- To introduce and incorporate props effectively in dance routines
- To collaborate with others to create and improve choreographed sequences
- To perform dance movements using different levels and directions with props
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to perform dance sequences incorporating props safely and creatively
- Students will demonstrate collaborative skills while creating group routines
- Students will show understanding of levels and directions in dance movement
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange in performance space, easily moveable
Alternative: Cushions, boxes, or benches if chairs unavailable
Placed around hall perimeter for starter activity
Alternative: Spots, bean bags, or markers
Positioned for clear sound throughout hall
Alternative: Portable speaker with device
Pre-loaded and tested before lesson
Alternative: Similar theatrical music with clear beat
Key Vocabulary
Objects used in dance to enhance expression and storytelling
Different heights in dance - low (floor), medium (standing), high (jumping/reaching)
The way dancers face or move - forward, backward, sideways, diagonal
Moving at the same time as others, keeping together
The art of creating and arranging dance movements
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Students have explored improvisation skills in previous lessons
- Students understand basic dance movements and spatial awareness
- Students have experience working in groups for dance activities
Current Skills
- Using props to enhance dance expression
- Collaborating to create group routines
- Applying levels and directions in choreography
Next Steps
- Developing complex prop-based choreography
- Creating original dance narratives using multiple props
- Leading and teaching choreography to younger students
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Safety first - always demonstrate proper chair handling and establish clear boundaries
- Encourage creativity within structure - give framework but allow personal interpretation
- Focus on process over perfection - celebrate effort and improvement
- Use music as timing support - help students feel the beat rather than just count
- Build confidence through positive reinforcement and peer support
- Connect all movements to story context to enhance meaning and engagement
- Differentiate expectations while maintaining inclusive group experience
Common Misconceptions
- Props are just decorations - clarify that props are integral to dance expression and storytelling
- Only sitting movements work with chairs - demonstrate full range of levels and directions possible
- Everyone must move identically - explain individual interpretation within group unity
- Faster movement means better dancing - emphasise control and timing over speed
- Mistakes ruin performance - teach that adaptation and recovery are part of live performance
- Props make dance easier - help students understand props add complexity and creative challenge
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular positive feedback, allow movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Simplify movement sequences initially, provide extra practice time, support with spatial awareness
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly contrasting chairs, provide verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for spatial awareness
hearing impairment
- Visual cues for music timing, demonstrate all movements clearly, use visual countdown for starting
physical disability
- Adapt chair movements for wheelchair users, modify levels as appropriate, ensure accessible prop handling
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Vocabulary development through dance terminology, storytelling through movement and character development
Music
Keeping time with beat, understanding rhythm and musical structure, responding to musical cues
PSHE
Cooperation and teamwork skills, building confidence and self-expression, supporting others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Circulate around hall during individual work, position at front during group performance for clear visibility
Observation Focus
Monitor safe prop use, watch for timing and rhythm development, check group cooperation
Intervention Points
Step in if unsafe chair use observed, support students struggling with timing, encourage reluctant participants
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate safe chair use first; show clear timing with music; exaggerate levels and directions for visibility
Verbal Cues
- •'Smooth movements with your chair partner!'
- •'Listen to the beat and move with the music!'
- •'Show me different levels - high, medium, low!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 8m x 12m clear space for individual chair work and group formations
Surface Check
Non-slip surface, clear of obstacles, adequate ceiling height for reaching movements
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all chairs for stability and no sharp edges before use
- •Ensure chairs are appropriate size for Year 3 students
- •Verify chairs can support student weight safely
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Slips and falls when moving around chairs
- •Chair tipping if used inappropriately
- •Collisions between students during movement
- •Overexertion during energetic sequences
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear safety briefing about appropriate chair use
- •Adequate spacing between students (minimum 2m)
- •Constant supervision during prop work
- •Progressive skill building from basic to complex movements
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all students during individual work
- •Circulate during skill development to monitor safety
- •Monitor high-activity areas during transitions
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, ensure other students remain safe