Lesson 2 - Travelling Movements & Levels
Creative Space Storytelling
•Year 4
•Dance
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How can we transform static dance actions into dynamic travelling movements that tell a story through space?
Learning Objectives
- To creatively adapt static motif actions into travelling movements using different body parts
- To demonstrate changes in level and pathway when travelling through space
- To show good timing and control whilst maintaining the theme from previous lesson
Key Outcomes
- Students will create a 32-count individual travelling section using 2-3 actions from last week's motif
- Students will demonstrate clear changes in level and pathway during travel
- Students will perform with improved timing and control to musical accompaniment
Equipment & Resources Required
Positioned for clear sound throughout hall
Alternative: Tablet or phone with portable speaker
Placed in four corners of the working space
Alternative: Laminated pictures or simple drawings
Mark boundaries and pathway examples
Alternative: Spots or chalk marks
Key Vocabulary
Moving from one place to another using different locomotor skills
The height at which movements are performed - high, medium, low
The pattern or route taken when moving through space
A short sequence of movements that can be repeated and developed
Smooth connection between movements without stops or jerky transitions
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Students have created a themed motif using static actions from previous lesson
- Basic understanding of dance actions and movements
- Experience performing simple dance sequences
Current Skills
- Adapting static actions into travelling movements
- Incorporating changes in level and pathway
- Developing individual choreographic skills
Next Steps
- Combining individual work with group choreography
- Adding more complex rhythmic patterns
- Incorporating props or partner work
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise adaptation rather than complete change of original motif actions
- Encourage experimentation with levels - high, medium, low throughout travel
- Focus on pathway variety - straight, curved, zigzag routes through space
- Maintain connection to theme throughout all movements
- Develop timing skills through consistent musical accompaniment
- Build performance confidence through supportive feedback environment
- Connect previous learning to new challenges for skill progression
Common Misconceptions
- That travelling means moving fast - emphasise control over speed
- That level changes are only about going up and down - show transitions can be smooth
- That creativity means abandoning the original theme - maintain thematic integrity
- That 32 counts is too long - break it down into manageable 8-count sections
- That all travelling must be forwards - explore sideways, backwards, diagonal movement
- That feedback must be critical - model positive, constructive feedback language
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and structure, allow for movement breaks between discussions
dyspraxia
- Simplify sequences to 2 actions only, provide additional practice time, use verbal cueing throughout movements
autism spectrum
- Provide visual schedule of lesson structure, offer quiet space for breaks, use consistent routine and clear expectations
visual impairment
- Use tactile markers for pathway boundaries, provide audio descriptions of corner cards, buddy system for spatial navigation
hearing impairment
- Use visual cues for music timing, vibrating speaker for rhythm feeling, clear visual demonstrations of all instructions
physical disability
- Adapt travelling to wheelchair movements or seated versions, modify level changes to upper body only, provide alternative pathway options
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Poetry writing homework connects to creative writing skills and vocabulary development
Maths
Counting 32 beats, understanding timing and rhythm patterns, spatial geometry through pathways
Science
Understanding how exercise affects heart rate and breathing, muscle memory and physical adaptation
PSHE
Building confidence through performance, giving and receiving feedback constructively, creativity and self-expression
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter during travel activities, centre for demonstrations and discussions
Observation Focus
Look for creative adaptation of motif actions, clear level changes, pathway variety, and musical timing
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with concept of adapting actions, if safety concerns arise, or if timing becomes too rushed
Demonstration Notes
Use clear, exaggerated movements when showing level changes. Demonstrate pathway options on the floor. Model giving constructive feedback.
Verbal Cues
- •'Travel, don't just move in one spot!'
- •'Can you make that action happen at a different level?'
- •'Listen to the music and let it guide your timing'
- •'Keep the theme alive in your movements'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 15m hall space with clear boundaries
Surface Check
Non-slip surface free from obstacles and debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Ensure corner cards are securely fastened and have no sharp edges
- •Check music volume is appropriate and not causing hearing discomfort
- •Verify all cones/markers are stable and visible
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during travelling movements
- •Falls during level changes
- •Overexertion during continuous movement
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and traffic flow patterns established
- •Emphasis on controlled movement rather than speed
- •Regular reminders about spatial awareness
- •Graduated introduction of level changes
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all corners during corners game
- •Circulate during individual work to monitor technique
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, contact emergency services if required