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Lesson 1 - Vikings Theme Motif Development

Viking Tales in Movement

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Year 3

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use movement to tell the story of Viking warriors and their adventures?

Learning Objectives

To explore and discuss Viking-themed vocabulary through movement
To create and perform actions that represent Viking concepts with good timing and control
To develop a collaborative 32-48 count Viking motif using improvisation and choreography

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in Viking-themed movements
Students will translate words and ideas into creative dance actions
Students will contribute effectively to group choreography and mind mapping activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Whiteboards

Positioned where all students can see for mind mapping activity

Alternative: Large paper sheets, interactive whiteboard

Dish Cones

2-3 different colours

Ready for teacher to create mind map with class

Alternative: Chalk, whiteboard pens

Music Player

1 system

Test volume levels before lesson, have pause/play easily accessible

Alternative: Tablet with portable speaker, computer with speakers

Victorian-Themed Music

2-3 tracks

Suggested: 'Northmen' and 'Vikings Attack' from Viking soundtracks

Alternative: Any dramatic, rhythmic instrumental music

Cones

4-6

Mark boundaries of dance space if needed

Alternative: Spots, bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short movement phrase that can be repeated and developed

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements

Dynamics

How movements are performed - strong, gentle, sharp, smooth

Extension

Stretching body parts to their full length for clear, strong shapes

Timing

Moving in time with the music and with other dancers

Mind Map

A diagram showing words and ideas connected to a central theme

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
Following simple movement patterns to music
Understanding of freeze and go activities

Current Skills

Creating themed movements from vocabulary
Performing choreographed sequences with counts
Working collaboratively to develop group motifs

Next Steps

Developing longer dance sequences with multiple themes
Advanced choreographic techniques and formations
Creating and teaching movement to others

Milestone Indicators

Maintains character and theme throughout performance

Demonstrates clear beginning, middle and end in movement phrases

Shows improvement in timing and coordination from start to end of lesson

Key Teaching Points

Model Viking character and energy throughout - students will match your enthusiasm
Use dance vocabulary consistently to build students' understanding and ability to give feedback
Balance individual creativity with group coordination - both are important
Connect all movements back to Viking theme to maintain engagement and purpose
Provide specific, positive feedback that students can act upon
Ensure equal participation in performance opportunities and feedback giving
Build from simple actions to complex sequences gradually

Common Misconceptions

Students may think Viking movements must be violent - emphasise strength, control and character instead
Some may believe only 'good dancers' can create movements - reassure that creativity matters more than technical skill
Students might think feedback should focus on mistakes - teach positive, constructive observation skills
May assume all Vikings movements are the same - encourage variety and personal interpretation
Some think performing means being perfect - emphasise effort, character and improvement over perfection

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries, use movement as positive outlet for energy

dyspraxia

Simplify movement sequences, provide extra practice time, use verbal cues alongside demonstrations

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule if helpful, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of movements, provide physical guidance for complex actions, ensure good contrast on whiteboard

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, written instructions on board, visual signals for start/stop

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated or supported positions, focus on upper body or achievable movements, ensure wheelchair access

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, descriptive language, storytelling through movement

Art

Visual representation of themes, understanding how ideas can be expressed through different media

History

Vikings topic - lifestyle, culture, exploration, and historical significance

Music

Understanding rhythm, timing, and responding to different musical styles

PSHE

Teamwork, giving and receiving feedback constructively, building confidence in performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space during activities to observe all students, return to central position for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for creativity in movement interpretation, group cooperation, and safe movement choices

Intervention Points

Step in if movements become unsafe, if students are off-task, or if feedback becomes negative

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements with full commitment to Viking character - students will mirror your energy and engagement level

Verbal Cues

•'Strong Viking warriors!'
•'Remember your Viking character!'
•'Show me proud, controlled movements!'
•'Think about your timing with the group!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, additional seating area for mind mapping

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, free from obstacles, adequate ventilation for physical activity

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music volume at appropriate level to hear instructions
•Marker pens have caps replaced immediately
•Whiteboard securely positioned

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during free movement phases
•Trips or falls during galloping movements
•Overexertion during energetic Viking actions

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for movement space
•Adequate personal space maintained throughout
•Progressive build-up from simple to complex movements
•Regular checks on student wellbeing during activity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all students during movement phases
•Monitor energy levels and provide breaks as needed
•Watch for unsafe interpretations of Viking themes

Emergency Procedures

Standard school procedures for injuries, first aid kit accessible, clear route to main office