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Lesson 2 - Extending Cat Sequences with Canon

Animal Movement Expression

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Year 4

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we create dramatic dance sequences using canon to tell the story of mischievous cats?

Learning Objectives

Apply canon technique when performing contrasting cat characters with a partner
Sustain character throughout dance sequences to add drama and emotion
Create and perform matching movements that flow between different levels

Key Outcomes

Students will perform cat sequences in canon with clear characterisation
Students will demonstrate creativity and expression in their cat movements
Students will evaluate and improve dance performances using constructive feedback

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Tablet or phone with speaker

Themed Music

Playlist

Have tracks ready with clear start/stop points

Alternative: Classical music with strong rhythm, nature sounds

Markers Cones

8-10

Mark performance areas around room perimeter

Alternative: Spots, hoops, or tape markers

Score Sheets

Class set

Prepare simple peer assessment sheets

Alternative: Simple tick sheets or mental checklists

Key Vocabulary

Canon

A choreographic technique where dancers perform the same movement one after another, like an echo

Matching movements

Identical movements performed by two or more dancers

Character

The personality and traits expressed through movement and gesture

Flow

Smooth, continuous movement that connects one action to another

Levels

Different heights in space - high, medium, and low

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic cat movements from previous lesson
Understanding of character and expression in dance
Simple sequence creation skills

Current Skills

Canon technique application
Partner synchronisation and matching
Character development and storytelling through movement

Next Steps

Complex group choreography
Advanced canon techniques
Performance skills with audience awareness

Milestone Indicators

Clear distinction between own cat and partner's movements in canon

Sustained characterisation throughout entire sequence

Smooth transitions between levels with maintained flow

Key Teaching Points

Canon technique requires clear timing and exact movement matching
Character development must be sustained throughout all activities
Effective partner work relies on communication and cooperation
Flow between movements creates more expressive and engaging sequences
Peer assessment develops when students use specific, constructive language
Different levels (high/medium/low) add visual interest and storytelling depth
Mischievous character traits can be expressed through movement quality and facial expression

Common Misconceptions

Canon means performing movements at exactly the same time (it's actually delayed timing)
Character work is just about animal movements (it requires sustained emotional expression)
Matching movements means doing similar actions (they must be identical)
Flow means moving quickly (it's about smooth, connected transitions)
Good feedback focuses on what went wrong (it should emphasise strengths and constructive suggestions)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity segments with clear transitions, provide fidget tools if helpful, celebrate focus and effort frequently

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller components, allow extra practice time, provide additional visual demonstrations

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedule for lesson sections, offer quiet space if needed for regulation

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions for all demonstrations, pair with sighted partner for canon work, provide tactile cues for timing

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for timing cues, demonstrate all instructions clearly, pair with hearing partner who can relay information

physical disability

Adapt cat movements to seated or supported positions, focus on upper body expression, modify level changes to abilities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through dance terminology, storytelling through movement, descriptive language for feedback

Music

Understanding rhythm and timing for canon work, responding to musical cues and tempo

PSHE

Cooperation and communication skills, giving and receiving constructive feedback, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter to observe all pairs, position centrally for demonstrations

Observation Focus

Character consistency, canon timing accuracy, partner cooperation, creative expression

Intervention Points

Support struggling pairs with canon timing, guide character development, facilitate positive peer feedback

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated cat character movements for clarity, model precise canon timing, show clear level changes

Verbal Cues

•'Stay in character, mischievous cats!'
•'Wait for the timing - 1, 2, 3, start!'
•'Let your movements flow like a real cat'
•'Make your movements match exactly'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, or school hall with adequate room for pairs to work safely

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip floor suitable for dance movement and safe for lying down

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check music equipment is positioned safely away from movement area
•Ensure cone markers are placed securely and won't cause trips
•Verify adequate space between pair work areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during enthusiastic cat movements
•Slips during level changes and flow sequences
•Overexcitement leading to unsafe movement choices

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair's work area
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Regular reminders about controlled movement and character focus
•Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all pairs

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Monitor pair interactions for appropriate cooperation
•Watch for safe execution of level changes
•Ensure canon timing doesn't lead to collisions

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately with clear signal, assess any injuries, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are calm and safe