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Lesson 4 - Space Character Interactions

Space Exploration Dance

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Year 4

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can dancers create meaningful relationships through movement and tell stories through character interactions?

Learning Objectives

To develop complex interacting movements between partners in character
To sustain character portrayal whilst adding drama and emotion to dance
To create sequences showing clear relationships and interlinking dance moves

Key Outcomes

Students will create partner sequences showing alien and astronaut character interactions
Students will demonstrate sustained character work with emotional expression
Students will evaluate and improve partner performances through peer assessment

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Positioned where all students can hear clearly

Alternative: Portable speaker, tablet with speakers

Themed Music

Multiple tracks

Pre-selected tracks of varying tempos and moods

Alternative: Classical music, instrumental film soundtracks

Whiteboards

For displaying key vocabulary and success criteria

Alternative: Large paper sheets, visual aids

Score Sheets

1 per pair

Ready for peer assessment activities

Alternative: Simple observation cards

Key Vocabulary

Interaction

When two dancers move together in ways that respond to each other

Interlinking

Movements that connect and flow between partners

Character

Playing a role through movement and expression

Flow

Smooth transitions between movements without stopping

Levels

High, medium and low positions in space

Expression

Showing emotion and feeling through movement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic alien and astronaut character movements from previous lessons
Understanding of different levels in dance
Experience working individually in character
Basic knowledge of moving to music rhythm

Current Skills

Partner interaction and cooperation in dance
Sustained character work with emotional expression
Creating sequences that tell stories
Peer assessment and constructive feedback

Next Steps

Group choreography with multiple characters
Advanced storytelling through dance with props
Performance skills for larger audiences
Creating original music interpretations

Milestone Indicators

Maintains character consistency throughout sequences

Demonstrates clear interaction with partner

Shows creativity in movement choices

Provides constructive feedback to peers

Key Teaching Points

Character consistency is more important than complex movements
Partner interaction should be responsive and cooperative, not competitive
Flow between movements creates better storytelling than isolated actions
Different levels add visual interest and creative opportunities
Peer assessment should focus on positive, specific observations
Safety through controlled movements and spatial awareness
Creative expression should be celebrated and encouraged

Common Misconceptions

Thinking dance requires perfect technique rather than creative expression
Believing that partner work means copying each other exactly
Assuming that character work requires exaggerated, unrealistic movements
Thinking that interaction means physical contact rather than responsive movement
Believing that flow means moving continuously without any pauses
Assuming that creativity cannot be taught or developed systematically

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear breaks, regular movement opportunities, clear behavioural expectations, positive reinforcement frequent

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, clear step-by-step instructions, partner support for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, predictable partner arrangements

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for guidance, audio cues for positioning and timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for instructions, visual feedback cards for assessment

physical disability

Adapted movements from seated position, partner support as needed, modified level changes

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Storytelling through movement, character development, narrative structure with beginning/middle/end

Science

Space and planets, gravity and movement, forces and motion in dance

Art

Creative expression, visual interpretation of characters, composition and flow

PSHE

Cooperation and teamwork, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence and self-esteem

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

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

Observation Focus

Character consistency, partner cooperation, creative problem-solving, safe movement choices

Intervention Points

Step in if partnerships struggling, unsafe movements observed, or off-task behaviour occurring

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, maintain character throughout demos, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Stay in character!'
•'Flow from one movement to the next!'
•'Watch your partner and respond!'
•'Tell your story through movement!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 8m clear space, suitable for partner work

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, clear of obstacles, safe for floor work

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music system positioned safely out of movement area
•No trailing wires or cables
•Volume set to allow verbal instructions
•Assessment materials stored safely

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Partner collisions during interaction work
•Falls during level changes
•Overenthusiastic movements in confined space
•Inadequate spacing between pairs

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair
•Emphasis on controlled movements throughout
•Teacher demonstration of safe interaction
•Regular reminders about spatial awareness
•Progressive building of complex movements

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visual oversight of all pairs
•Circulate constantly during partner work
•Monitor enthusiasm levels and control
•Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if unsafe behaviour observed, assess any incidents, provide appropriate first aid or support as needed