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Lesson 3 - Cultural Pairs Choreography

Cultural Dance Motifs

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Year 4

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Dance

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Big Question

How can we use pictures and partner work to tell stories through dance movement?

Learning Objectives

To work cooperatively in pairs using pictures as creative stimulus
To develop a 16-count pairs dance section incorporating mirror image and level changes
To communicate effectively through movement and provide constructive feedback

Key Outcomes

Students will create a cohesive pairs dance section inspired by cultural imagery
Students will demonstrate understanding of mirror image and level changes
Students will work collaboratively and give meaningful feedback to peers

Equipment & Resources Required

Space Images

15-20 images

Laminated pictures showing various dance styles from different countries

Alternative: iPad/smartboard with digital images

Cards

Place in each corner of room with different dance words/actions

Alternative: Cones with labels attached

Tunnel Systems

Test volume levels before lesson begins

Alternative: Portable bluetooth speaker

Yoga Mat

15 (for stretching)

Arrange around perimeter for warm-up stretches

Alternative: Marked floor spaces

Key Vocabulary

Mirror Image

Copying your partner's movements exactly, as if looking in a mirror

Level Changes

Moving between high, medium, and low positions in dance

16-count Section

A dance sequence that lasts for 16 beats of music

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements

Stimulus

Something that inspires or gives ideas for creative movement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic dance movements and travels
Understanding of personal and general space
Experience creating simple motifs
Basic knowledge of dance levels

Current Skills

Partner cooperation and mirroring techniques
Creative interpretation of visual stimuli
Combining movements into 16-count sequences
Understanding and applying level changes

Next Steps

Complex group choreography
Advanced partner lifts and balances
Creating dance narratives with multiple scenes
Performance skills and audience awareness

Milestone Indicators

Maintains synchronization with partner throughout sequence

Uses at least 3 different levels within 16 counts

Creates movements that clearly reflect chosen imagery

Provides specific, helpful feedback to peers

Key Teaching Points

Mirror image means exactly copying your partner as if looking in a mirror
Level changes add visual interest and show skill development
Cultural pictures should be treated with respect and appreciation
16-count sequences need clear structure and timing
Partner cooperation is as important as individual skill

Common Misconceptions

Mirror work means doing the same side - clarify that opposite sides mirror each other
Level changes must be dramatic - show that subtle changes are also effective
Cultural dances must be copied exactly - emphasise creative interpretation
Feedback should only mention problems - model positive, constructive comments

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide movement breaks, use clear visual and verbal cues, offer fidget tools during discussions

dyspraxia

Simplify movement sequences, allow extra practice time, provide clear demonstrations, focus on effort over precision

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules, allow for sensory breaks, provide predictable partnerships

visual impairment

Use high contrast pictures, provide tactile cards with raised textures, pair with sighted partner for descriptions

hearing impairment

Use visual cues and demonstrations, provide written instructions, use vibrating music devices if available

physical disability

Adapt movements to seated or supported positions, focus on upper body mirroring, use adaptive equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development through dance terminology, creative writing for homework poems, speaking and listening during partner discussions

Maths

Counting 4-count and 16-count sequences, understanding patterns and rhythm, spatial awareness

Art

Visual interpretation skills, understanding how images inspire movement, creative expression

Geography

Exploring different countries and cultures through dance pictures, understanding global dance traditions

PSHE

Partnership cooperation, cultural appreciation, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

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

Observation Focus

Watch for cooperation, synchronization, cultural sensitivity, and safe execution

Intervention Points

Step in if partnerships struggling, unsafe movements, or cultural insensitivity

Demonstration Notes

Use confident students for demonstrations, show both correct and improved versions clearly, emphasise cultural respect

Verbal Cues

•'Mirror means exactly the same!'
•'Show me three different levels!'
•'Count together: 1-2-3-4!'
•'What story does your picture tell?'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 12m clear space, suitable for pairs work

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Pictures securely laminated or displayed safely
•Corner cards firmly attached and visible
•Music system positioned safely away from movement area

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between pairs during travel activities
•Falls during level changes
•Inappropriate physical contact during partner work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair
•Safe spacing maintained throughout activities
•Level changes practiced slowly before full speed
•Clear guidelines for appropriate partner contact

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all pairs during partner work
•Monitor closely during level change practice
•Watch for fatigue during extended choreography sessions

Emergency Procedures

Stop music immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support as needed