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Lesson 3 - Character Dance Development

Space Exploration Dance

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Year 4

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use movement to tell a story through contrasting characters?

Learning Objectives

To develop character work by adding drama and emotion to dance movements
To create performances with two contrasting characters (astronauts and aliens)
To perform sequences in unison with clear character differentiation

Key Outcomes

Students will move staying in character as astronauts and aliens
Students will create a 6-movement sequence performed in unison with their partner
Students will demonstrate clear differences between contrasting character movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Tablet or phone with external speaker

Themed Music

Playlist

Have multiple tracks ready for different activities

Alternative: Atmospheric instrumental music

Cones

8-12

Mark boundaries and performance areas

Alternative: Bean bags or spot markers

Key Vocabulary

Character

A person or creature in a story, shown through movement and expression

Unison

Moving at exactly the same time as your partner

Expression

Showing feelings and emotions through your face and body

Flow

Smooth, continuous movement from one action to another

Levels

Moving at different heights - high, medium, and low

Sequence

A series of movements performed in a specific order

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of character movement from previous lessons
Ability to move with control and coordination
Experience working with partners in dance

Current Skills

Character development through movement
Creating contrasting character movements
Performing sequences in unison
Peer assessment and improvement

Next Steps

Developing more complex character narratives
Creating longer dance sequences
Incorporating props and costumes into character work

Milestone Indicators

Clear character differentiation in movement

Sustained in-character performance

Effective partner collaboration

Constructive peer feedback

Key Teaching Points

Character consistency is more important than complex movements
Unison requires both partners to compromise and adapt
Expression comes from commitment to character, not just facial expressions
Different levels and flow make sequences more interesting to watch
Positive feedback helps everyone improve and feel confident
Space theme provides rich imagery for creative movement development

Common Misconceptions

Thinking aliens must be scary - encourage variety in alien personalities
Believing faster movements are better - emphasise control and character
Assuming unison means identical movements - focus on simultaneous timing
Thinking only 'good dancers' can create characters - all students can develop character through movement
Believing criticism improves performance - positive feedback with suggestions is more effective

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Include frequent movement breaks, provide clear time boundaries, use energetic character work positively, offer additional structure

dyspraxia

Break down sequences into smaller steps, provide extra practice time, use rhythm and counting to support timing, celebrate effort over perfection

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet space if needed, use visual sequence cards, maintain consistent expectations

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of movements, provide tactile cues through partner work, position near teacher for demonstrations

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations and gestures, provide written sequence cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated or supported positions, focus on upper body expression, modify partner activities

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Character development, storytelling through movement, descriptive vocabulary for movement qualities

Science

Space exploration, gravity and movement, observation and comparison skills

PSHE

Working collaboratively, giving and receiving feedback respectfully, building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space during activities, position centrally for demonstrations, ensure visibility of all students

Observation Focus

Character commitment, unison quality, partnership cooperation, creative interpretation

Intervention Points

Step in if partnerships struggle, provide support for character development, help with unison timing

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated character movements for clarity, show clear contrast between astronaut and alien, demonstrate perfect unison with volunteer

Verbal Cues

•'Stay in character!'
•'Together in unison!'
•'Show me your alien personality!'
•'Make your movements flow!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 10m x 8m clear space, suitable for 30 students moving in pairs

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check music equipment is safely positioned
•Ensure boundary markers are visible and secure
•Verify adequate space between working pairs

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during partner work
•Over-excitement leading to unsafe movement
•Inappropriate physical contact during character work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and spacing established
•Emphasis on controlled, in-character movement
•Regular reminders about appropriate partner contact
•Teacher positioning for maximum supervision

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all pairs during sequence creation
•Monitor partnership dynamics and cooperation
•Watch for inclusive participation and appropriate feedback

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, contact office if needed