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Lesson 2 - Space Dance - Canon and Character

Space Exploration Dance

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Year 4

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Dance

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50 min

Big Question

How can we use canon and matching movements to tell the story of astronauts discovering aliens in space?

Learning Objectives

Apply canon technique when performing contrasting character movements with a partner
Sustain character portrayal to add drama and emotion to dance sequences
Create and perform a 3-movement sequence that tells a story through dance

Key Outcomes

Students will perform movements in canon whilst maintaining astronaut character
Students will create an expressive sequence showing the discovery of aliens
Students will demonstrate matching movements with a partner in time with music

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

1 set

Position for clear sound throughout hall

Alternative: Tablet with speaker, phone with portable speaker

Themed Music

2-3 tracks

Have tracks ready to play, test volume levels

Alternative: Instrumental music with steady beat, ambient space sounds

Sun Markers

1 set

Position for all students to see clearly

Alternative: Flipchart paper, tablet for visual aids

Score Sheets

1 per pair

Have ready for peer assessment activity

Alternative: Simple observation checklist, mental notes

Key Vocabulary

Canon

A technique where dancers perform the same movements but start at different times, creating a follow-the-leader effect

Matching movements

Performing identical movements at exactly the same time with a partner

Character

Staying in role as a specific person or creature throughout the dance

Sequence

A series of movements performed in a specific order that tells a story

Expression

Using face, body, and movement to show emotions and feelings

Flow

Smooth transitions between movements without stopping or jerky changes

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of character movement from Unit 2 Lesson 1
Simple matching movements with a partner
Basic space-themed movements and gestures

Current Skills

Canon technique application in partner work
Sustained character portrayal with emotion
Creating 3-movement sequences with story elements

Next Steps

Complex multi-partner canon sequences
Advanced character development and interaction
Performance with costume and staging elements

Milestone Indicators

Consistent timing in canon performance

Clear character distinction between astronaut and alien discovery

Smooth transitions between movements in sequence

Key Teaching Points

Canon means same movement but starting at different times - like follow the leader
Character work requires commitment throughout - astronauts move differently from normal people
Clear story structure helps audiences understand the dance - explore, discover, react
Partner work requires communication and cooperation - talk together, watch each other
Different levels add interest and variety to sequences
Smooth transitions make sequences flow and look professional
Positive feedback helps everyone improve - start with strengths, then suggest improvements

Common Misconceptions

Canon and matching are the same - emphasise timing difference
Character work is just facial expressions - use whole body and movement style
Louder music makes better dance - focus on listening and responding appropriately
Complicated movements are better - simple, clear movements with good technique are most effective
Only 'good dancers' can perform - everyone can tell stories through movement with practice
Feedback should focus on mistakes - positive observations and constructive suggestions are most helpful

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear movement boundaries, regular refocus opportunities

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, breaking down complex sequences into smaller parts

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of movements, physical guidance from partner, tactile cues for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for timing, vibration cues through floor for beat

physical disability

Seated or adapted movements maintaining story and character, modified canon using available movements

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Story-telling through movement, character development, using descriptive vocabulary for feedback

Science

Space exploration theme, understanding gravity effects, astronaut equipment and procedures

Drama

Character portrayal, emotional expression, performance skills and audience awareness

Music

Responding to rhythm and beat, understanding timing and tempo in canon work

PSHE

Partnership skills, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

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

Observation Focus

Watch for canon timing, character consistency, partner cooperation, safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs struggling with timing, provide additional demonstration for confused students

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, emphasise timing differences in canon, model character commitment

Verbal Cues

•'Wait for the count before joining in'
•'Keep your astronaut character throughout'
•'Watch your partner carefully'
•'Think about the story you're telling'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 10m clear area, suitable for dynamic movement

Surface Check

Clean, dry floor suitable for barefoot or soft-soled shoes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Volume at appropriate level for instruction and safety
•Cables secured to prevent tripping

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during partner work
•Trips and falls during level changes
•Overexertion during energetic sequences

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for each pair
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Adequate warm-up and cool-down periods
•Supervised practice of challenging movements

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all pairs
•Monitor spacing between working pairs
•Watch for signs of fatigue or difficulty

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required