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Lesson 3 - Wild Animal Partner Sequences

Expressive Animal Dance

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Year 3

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we express wild animal characteristics through creative movement with a partner?

Learning Objectives

Execute a wider variety of movements singly and in extended sequences with a partner
Sustain character portrayal to add drama and emotion to dance
Create interconnected movements that flow between partners

Key Outcomes

Students will perform wild animal movements with clear expression and creativity
Students will create flowing partner sequences that include swinging and rolling movements
Students will demonstrate character consistency throughout their performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Drum

Positioned where all students can hear clearly

Alternative: Tambourine, music speaker with clear beat

Music Player

Wild animal themed music or rhythmic drumming tracks

Alternative: Tablet with speakers, CD player

Sun Markers

20-30

Define boundaries and starting positions for pairs

Alternative: Cones, spots, chalk marks

Key Vocabulary

Sequence

A series of movements performed one after another in a flowing pattern

Expression

Using your face, body and movements to show feelings and emotions

Character

Staying as your chosen wild animal throughout the dance

Interconnect

When partner movements link together smoothly

Rhythm

The pattern of beats in music that we can move to

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic animal movements from previous lessons
Understanding of tempo and rhythm
Experience working individually in dance

Current Skills

Partner collaboration in dance
Sustained character portrayal
Linking movements into sequences

Next Steps

Group dance sequences
Narrative-based dance
Performance skills

Milestone Indicators

Maintains character throughout sequence

Creates smooth transitions between movements

Responds appropriately to musical cues

Key Teaching Points

Maintain wild animal character consistently throughout all activities
Emphasise smooth, flowing movements rather than jerky or rushed actions
Develop partner cooperation through positive communication and shared timing
Connect all movements to the rhythm and beat of music
Focus on expression and creativity within safe, controlled movement patterns
Build confidence through progressive skill development and positive feedback
Use performance opportunities to celebrate achievement and build self-esteem

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Louder animal sounds make better performance. Correction: Controlled, appropriate sounds maintain focus and character.
Misconception: Faster movements show more skill. Correction: Controlled, expressive movements demonstrate mastery.
Misconception: Partners must move identically. Correction: Complementary movements that flow together create better sequences.
Misconception: Rolling must be fast to be effective. Correction: Controlled rolling maintains character and ensures safety.
Misconception: Only fierce animals work for this dance. Correction: Any wild animal can be interpreted with appropriate movement qualities.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use energetic animal theme to channel energy positively, provide clear boundaries, give specific roles in partnerships

dyspraxia

Break movements into smaller steps, provide additional practice time, use supportive partnerships

autism spectrum

Provide clear sequence structure, allow practice time, offer quiet space if overstimulated

visual impairment

Use tactile cues for partner positioning, provide clear verbal descriptions of movements, pair with supportive partner

hearing impairment

Use visual cues for rhythm, demonstrate all movements clearly, provide written rhyme text

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated performance, modify rolling to safe alternatives, focus on upper body expression

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with descriptive words, following rhyme patterns, verbal communication skills

Music

Rhythm recognition, beat counting, responding to tempo changes

PSHE

Partnership cooperation, positive feedback, emotional expression and regulation

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space during activities, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for character consistency, partner cooperation, and safe movement execution

Intervention Points

Step in if partnerships need support, safety concerns arise, or students need technical guidance

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements at students' eye level, exaggerate key teaching points, include character elements in every demonstration

Verbal Cues

•'Big, clear movements!'
•'Stay in character!'
•'Connect with your partner!'
•'Listen to the rhythm!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or gymnasium, minimum 8m x 12m for full class

Surface Check

Clean, non-slip surface suitable for rolling movements and dance

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check drum for secure construction and appropriate volume
•Ensure music equipment is positioned safely away from movement area
•Verify space markers are visible but not trip hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during partner approach sequences
•Falls during rolling movements
•Over-excitement leading to loss of control

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing guidelines between pairs
•Progressive teaching of rolling technique
•Regular reminders about controlled movement
•Teacher positioning for maximum supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all pairs during partner work
•Monitor rolling technique closely
•Watch for appropriate contact between partners

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately with calm voice command, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid