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Lesson 1 - Freeze Frame Storytelling

Action Adventure Narrative Dance

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Year 4

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to tell exciting stories without moving?

Learning Objectives

Develop dance 'freeze frames' based on visual stimulus to create dramatic positions
Work in small groups to create expressive freeze-frame positions that tell a story
Demonstrate and discuss performance skills using appropriate facial expressions and body tension

Key Outcomes

Students will create freeze frames which tell a story using the James Bond theme
Students will work collaboratively to develop freeze frame positions incorporating different levels and directions
Students will perform and evaluate freeze frames using appropriate performance skills

Equipment & Resources Required

Space Images

4 large pictures

Display clearly for whole class viewing

Alternative: Action hero images, spy character pictures

Music Player

Test volume and track selection before lesson

Alternative: Phone with speaker, laptop

Instrumental Music

1 track

Choose music without lyrics for better concentration

Alternative: James Bond theme, action movie soundtracks

Cones

8-12

Mark group work areas around the hall

Alternative: Spot markers, chalk lines

Key Vocabulary

Freeze Frame

A vivid, motionless position that captures a moment in time

Body Tension

Tight muscles that make the body strong and controlled

Facial Expression

Using face to show emotions and character

Levels

High, medium and low positions using different body heights

Direction

Which way the body is facing - front, back, side

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Students can create simple body shapes and positions
Students understand the concept of stillness in movement
Students can work in pairs and small groups cooperatively

Current Skills

Creating freeze frames based on visual stimulus
Working collaboratively to develop group positions
Using facial expressions and body tension effectively

Next Steps

Developing freeze frames into movement sequences
Creating complex stories through dance
Incorporating props and music into performances

Milestone Indicators

Students hold freeze frames for 5+ seconds with good tension

Groups create sequences that clearly tell a story

Students provide constructive feedback to peers

Key Teaching Points

Body tension is essential for strong freeze frames - 'tight like a robot, not floppy like a rag doll'
Facial expressions tell the story as much as body position - encourage serious, focused James Bond expressions
Hold freeze frames for minimum 5 seconds to create impact and develop control
Use different directions and levels to create visual interest and clear storytelling
Group cooperation requires listening, sharing ideas and supporting each other's creativity
Performance skills develop through practice, feedback and confidence building
Story clarity comes from logical sequence and character consistency throughout

Common Misconceptions

Students think freeze frames should be funny rather than dramatic - emphasise serious storytelling
Students believe faster is better - focus on quality and control over speed
Students assume all group members should do the same pose - encourage variety and interaction
Students think body tension means being rigid - demonstrate controlled but natural strength
Students believe freeze frames don't need facial expressions - emphasise whole body storytelling
Students assume louder is clearer in feedback - model specific, helpful observation language

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments with clear transitions, movement breaks built in, specific roles within groups, fidget tools if needed

dyspraxia

Break down poses into component parts, extra practice time, support with spatial awareness, simplified movements initially

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual timetable, consistent routines, quiet practice time before performances, sensory break options

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of James Bond poses, allow tactile exploration of positions, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear body language, written instructions displayed, hand signals for freeze commands

physical disability

Adapt poses for seated or supported positions, focus on upper body expressions, modify contact work appropriately

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Narrative structure, character motivation, descriptive vocabulary development

Art

Visual composition, use of levels and space, creating impact through positioning

Drama

Character development, storytelling through physical theatre, freeze frame technique

PSHE

Teamwork skills, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter during group work, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for body tension quality, group cooperation, understanding of freeze frame concept, safety during contact work

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggling with cooperation, if safety concerns arise, if students not understanding freeze frame concept

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate freeze frames with exaggerated technique for clear visibility, hold positions for full 5 seconds to model expectation, use serious facial expressions to maintain James Bond character

Verbal Cues

•'Strong like a statue!'
•'Tell the story with your whole body!'
•'Serious spy face!'
•'Hold it perfectly still!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m hall space, clear of obstacles and furniture

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface suitable for floor work and movement

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Images secured and visible but not creating trip hazards
•No loose equipment left in movement spaces

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during rolling movements
•Collisions during partner and group work
•Overbalancing in freeze frame positions
•Inappropriate physical contact during group work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all activities
•Adequate spacing between groups and pairs
•Progressive skill building from individual to group work
•Clear guidelines for appropriate contact in group activities
•Continuous supervision during all movement activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during work time
•Circulate during partner work to ensure safety and engagement
•Monitor group work for appropriate interaction and inclusion

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established (hand up), immediate assessment protocol, first aid kit accessible, clear evacuation route maintained