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Big Question

How can we use our observation skills to help each other become better performers?

Learning Objectives

  • To understand what makes a good performance
  • To give useful feedback to our partner using technical language
  • To improve our own performance based on feedback received

Key Outcomes

  • Students will perform their complete dance piece with improved timing and expression
  • Students will evaluate performances using accurate technical vocabulary
  • Students will demonstrate improved performance skills based on peer feedback

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems
1

Positioned for clear audio throughout hall

Alternative: Bluetooth speaker, tablet with speakers

Performance Music Track
1

Cued and ready to play, volume tested

Alternative: Egyptian Reggae by Rock and Roll with the Modern Lovers or similar

Digital Cameras
1

Charged and positioned for optimal recording angle

Alternative: Mobile phone with video capability

Sun Markers
1 set

Performance checklist written up clearly

Alternative: Flip chart paper and pens

Cones
8-10

Available for marking performance area boundaries

Alternative: Spots, beanbags for marking spaces

Key Vocabulary

Timing

Moving in time with the music and with other dancers

Canon

When dancers perform the same movement one after another

Formation

The shape or pattern dancers make on the performance space

Unison

When all dancers perform exactly the same movement at the same time

Transition

The smooth movement from one dance section to another

Levels

The height at which movements are performed: high, medium, low

Expression

Showing emotion and character through movement and facial expressions

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

  • Created individual, pairs and group dance sequences
  • Developed understanding of timing, levels, directions and canon
  • Practised performance skills in previous lessons

Current Skills

  • Evaluating dance performances using technical vocabulary
  • Giving constructive feedback to peers
  • Refining performance skills based on observation

Next Steps

  • Creating original choreography with narrative themes
  • Advanced performance skills including facial expression
  • Leading warm-ups and teaching dance phrases to others

Milestone Indicators

1
Can identify specific technical elements in performances
2
Uses dance vocabulary confidently when giving feedback
3
Shows visible improvement after receiving feedback

Key Teaching Points

  • Use technical dance vocabulary consistently throughout feedback and evaluation
  • Maintain focus on improvement and celebration rather than criticism
  • Ensure all students experience success through differentiated expectations
  • Create genuine performance atmosphere to build confidence and commitment
  • Model positive feedback language and coach students to give constructive comments
  • Connect today's performance skills to real-world performance contexts
  • Document progress through video comparison to show clear improvement over time

Common Misconceptions

  • That evaluation means finding faults - emphasise identifying strengths first
  • That good timing means moving fast - teach that precision matters more than speed
  • That performance is only about individual skills - highlight importance of group cooperation
  • That feedback should focus on what went wrong - model positive, constructive language
  • That dance ability is fixed - emphasise growth and improvement through practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD
  • Break activities into shorter segments, provide movement breaks, use clear visual and verbal boundaries
dyspraxia
  • Allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step movement breakdowns, focus on effort over precision
autism spectrum
  • Provide clear structure for feedback sessions, use visual prompt cards, allow extra processing time
visual impairment
  • Use verbal cues for timing, provide physical guidance for formations, describe performances during evaluation
hearing impairment
  • Use visual signals for timing, provide written feedback prompts, demonstrate rather than rely on music
physical disability
  • Adapt movements for seated or supported performance, focus on upper body expression, modify formations as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Using technical vocabulary accurately, giving structured feedback, articulating improvements clearly

Maths

Counting beats and timing, recognising patterns in music and movement sequences

Science

Understanding how physical activity affects heart rate and breathing, body systems during exercise

Art

Appreciating performance as artistic expression, understanding aesthetic qualities in movement

PSHE

Building confidence through performance, giving and receiving constructive feedback, celebrating achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between observation points during performances to see all students clearly

Observation Focus

Watch for timing accuracy, use of technical elements, and quality of peer feedback

Intervention Points

Step in to guide feedback conversations and support struggling performers

Demonstration Notes

Model excellent feedback language and demonstrate key technical elements as needed

Verbal Cues
  • •'Remember our checklist!'
  • •'Use your dance vocabulary!'
  • •'Show me those levels!'
  • •'Perfect timing together!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large clear space minimum 8m x 8m for performance area plus audience seating

Surface Check

Non-slip surface checked for cleanliness and safety, no obstacles or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks
  • •Music system positioned safely away from movement area
  • •Video equipment secure and not causing trip hazards
  • •Whiteboard stable and markers capped safely

Risk Management

Key Risks
  • •Collisions during group movements and formation changes
  • •Trips and falls during enthusiastic performance
  • •Overexertion during multiple performances
Risk Mitigation
  • •Clear boundaries established for performance and audience areas
  • •Adequate spacing maintained between performers
  • •Cool down periods between intensive activities
  • •Progressive build-up to final performance demands

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points
  • •Position for visibility of all performers during evaluations
  • •Monitor energy levels throughout lesson
  • •Watch for signs of fatigue during multiple performances
Emergency Procedures

Stop music immediately if injury occurs, clear space for assessment, appropriate first aid response