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Lesson 1 - Romans Movement & Motifs

Roman Stories in Dance

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Year 3

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell the story of Ancient Romans through creative movement?

Learning Objectives

To share knowledge about the Romans theme and create a themed mind map
To creatively translate words and ideas into movement actions using different body parts, levels and pathways
To demonstrate good timing, posture and extension whilst performing choreographed sequences

Key Outcomes

Students will develop a 32-48 count Romans motif using mind map words
Students will demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in their movements
Students will show respect and give constructive feedback to peers during performances

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position for clear sound throughout the hall

Alternative: Phone with portable speaker, laptop with speakers

Cards

4 sets

One set of 4 different cards for each corner of the room

Alternative: Printed images: gladiator, chariot, Roman soldier, amphitheatre

Whiteboards

Positioned where all students can see for mind mapping activity

Alternative: Large paper and markers

Markers

3-4

Ensure they write clearly and are visible from the back

Alternative: Different coloured pens for visibility

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short movement phrase that can be repeated and developed

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements into sequences

Extension

Stretching body parts to their full length to create strong, controlled lines

Dynamics

How movement is performed - with different qualities like sharp, smooth, strong or gentle

Levels

The height at which movements are performed - high, medium or low

Pathways

The routes we travel through space - straight, curved, zigzag

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of high, medium and low levels in movement
Experience of moving to music with rhythm awareness
Knowledge of personal space and general space concepts

Current Skills

Developing motifs using theme-based vocabulary
Translating words and ideas into physical actions
Demonstrating agility, balance, coordination and precision in dance

Next Steps

Extending motifs to create longer dance sequences
Working collaboratively in small groups to choreograph
Using dynamics and expression to enhance storytelling through dance

Milestone Indicators

Students can create actions that clearly represent the chosen Roman words

Movements show developing control of balance and coordination

Students demonstrate respect and constructive feedback during peer performances

Key Teaching Points

Connect all movements to Roman theme to maintain engagement and historical context
Use specific technical vocabulary (timing, balance, dynamics, extension) and explain clearly
Celebrate creativity and risk-taking - emphasise no 'wrong' answers in creative exploration
Build performance confidence gradually through structured observation and feedback
Maintain clear structure while allowing individual expression within activities
Count aloud consistently to develop students' internal sense of timing and rhythm
Model positive feedback language and encourage specific rather than general praise

Common Misconceptions

Students may think dance requires 'perfect' movements rather than creative expression - emphasise personal interpretation
Some may believe only girls can be successful at dance - highlight warrior/soldier themes to engage all students
Students might think faster always means better - teach that control and precision are more important than speed
May assume historical accuracy is required - clarify that creative interpretation of themes is the goal
Could think feedback means only pointing out problems - teach positive, constructive feedback focused on specific achievements

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Provide frequent movement opportunities, break tasks into smaller chunks, use clear signals for attention, celebrate effort and focus when observed

dyspraxia

Simplify movement patterns initially, provide additional practice time, use verbal and visual cues together, celebrate small improvements in coordination

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine and structure, allow processing time for instructions, offer quiet space if needed, use visual schedule of lesson sections

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of all movements, provide physical guidance when appropriate, ensure good contrast for picture cards, use buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Ensure clear visual demonstrations, use visual cues and signals, provide written instructions where helpful, use vibrant visual picture cards

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated or supported positions, focus on upper body actions where appropriate, provide alternative roles such as counting or feedback giving

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development with Roman-themed words, verbal feedback skills, and creative expression through movement interpretation

Maths

Counting skills with 32-48 count sequences, understanding of patterns and timing, spatial awareness through levels and pathways

History

Learning about Ancient Roman civilization, Roman army, gladiators, and Roman daily life through movement exploration

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration, giving and receiving constructive feedback, building confidence through performance, respect for others' ideas

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where all students can see demonstrations clearly. During exploration phases, move around the space to observe and encourage. During performances, position to monitor both performers and audience safety and behaviour.

Observation Focus

Watch for creative interpretation, technical development (balance, timing, extension), safe movement choices, and positive collaboration. Note students needing additional support or extension challenges.

Intervention Points

Step in if students are struggling with vocabulary understanding, showing unsafe movement, or if group dynamics need support. Provide additional scaffolding for complex movements when needed.

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements clearly and at appropriate speed. Face students when possible, use exaggerated movements for clarity. Connect demonstrations to Roman theme consistently. Model the energy and quality you want to see.

Verbal Cues

•'Strong Roman posture!'
•'Feel the rhythm in your body!'
•'Show me those warrior muscles!'
•'Breathe with your movements!'
•'Control and precision like Roman soldiers!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 12m hall space, clear of obstacles and with good acoustic properties for music

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip flooring suitable for dance movements including jumping and directional changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music player positioned safely away from movement area
•Picture cards securely attached to walls or stands in corners
•Markers/pens stored safely when not in use
•Ensure no sharp edges or protruding objects in movement space

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during free movement and galloping sections
•Slips and falls during directional changes and levels work
•Over-stretching during warm-up stretches
•Excitement leading to unsafe movement choices

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all movement activities
•Adequate spacing maintained between students during individual work
•Progressive building from simple to complex movements
•Constant monitoring of energy levels and student behaviour
•Clear stop signals established and practiced

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear visibility of all students during activities
•Move around space during exploration phases to monitor closely
•Stand where you can see both performers and audience during presentations
•Monitor galloping section particularly closely for collisions

Emergency Procedures

Clear stop signal (hand raised) for immediate cessation of activity. Basic first aid available for minor injuries. Clear evacuation routes established. Contact details for serious injuries readily available.