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Lesson 1 - Space Exploration Movement

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 our bodies to tell the story of space exploration through dance?

Learning Objectives

To explore movement through improvisation, introducing unison and matching
To sustain character as astronauts to add drama and emotion to dance
To respond to stimuli and work together effectively in pairs

Key Outcomes

Students will move expressively in character as astronauts
Students will create matching sequences performed in unison with a partner
Students will demonstrate creativity and expression while responding to music

Equipment & Resources Required

Space Images

1 set for class display

Display around the room or use projector for whole class viewing

Alternative: Printed photos, projected images, or picture books

Pictures

Various planet images

Available for students to look at during exploration activity

Alternative: Space books, tablet images, or hand-drawn pictures

Music Player

1 system

Test volume levels and have backup music ready

Alternative: Any device capable of playing atmospheric space music

Open Floor Space

Hall or large classroom

Remove obstacles, ensure safe boundaries are clear

Alternative: Outdoor space if weather permits

Key Vocabulary

Unison

Performing the same movements at exactly the same time

Matching

Creating movements that look the same or very similar

Expression

Using your face and body to show feelings and emotions

Character

Staying as the astronaut person throughout the dance

Flow

Smooth, continuous movement from one action to the next

Levels

Using high, medium and low positions in space

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of character movement
Ability to respond to simple signals
Experience working with partners

Current Skills

Character sustaining and expression
Unison and matching movements
Creative improvisation in pairs

Next Steps

Complex partner choreography
Canon and contrasting movements
Performance to audience with confidence

Milestone Indicators

Consistent character portrayal throughout lesson

Clear unison demonstrated with partner

Creative movement responses to different stimuli

Key Teaching Points

Maintain astronaut character throughout all activities to sustain engagement and imagination
Emphasise controlled, slow movements appropriate for space suit and low gravity environment
Focus on clear understanding of unison (same time) versus matching (same movements)
Encourage creative expression while maintaining safety and control
Use space theme vocabulary consistently to build atmosphere and engagement
Support partnership cooperation through clear expectations and positive feedback
Connect movements to emotions and storytelling for deeper creative engagement

Common Misconceptions

Thinking unison just means 'similar' rather than 'exactly the same time' - correct by emphasising counting together
Believing faster movements look more impressive - teach that control and expression are more important than speed
Assuming only excited emotions fit space exploration - encourage variety including wonder, caution, curiosity
Thinking creativity means completely different movements - show how personal interpretation within structure creates creativity
Believing one partner should lead completely - emphasise equal contribution and cooperation in sequence creation

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts, clear movement boundaries, regular check-ins with teacher, extra movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, extra practice time for sequences, pair with supportive partner, focus on effort over perfection

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual sequence cards, quiet space available if needed, consistent routine and predictable activities

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of space images, tactile props like textured balls for planets, clear verbal cues for all movements

hearing impairment

Visual signals for stopping and starting, demonstrate all movements clearly, use visual space images extensively

physical disability

Adapt astronaut movements for wheelchair users (floating arm movements), seated versions of sequences, focus on upper body expression

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, storytelling through movement, descriptive language for space

Maths

Counting for unison timing, spatial awareness, symmetry in matching movements

Science

Space exploration, gravity, solar system knowledge, understanding planets

Art

Creative expression through movement, interpreting visual stimuli of space images

Geography

Understanding Earth and space, different environments and their challenges

PSHE

Cooperation skills, listening to others, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around space to observe all pairs, position for clear demonstration visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for unison quality, creative expression, and safe movement choices

Intervention Points

Support struggling partnerships, ensure safety during jumps, encourage shy performers

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, maintain character throughout, show both excellent examples and common mistakes

Verbal Cues

•'Remember your astronaut character!'
•'Make it exactly the same as your partner!'
•'Show me the wonder on your face!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or studio space minimum 15m x 10m for pair work and performances

Surface Check

Smooth, clean floor suitable for dance movement, free from obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Images securely displayed where they won't fall
•Music system at appropriate volume level
•Clear boundaries marked for movement area

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between pairs during movement
•Unsafe jumping and landing
•Trips from getting too excited in character

Risk Mitigation

•Clear spacing between pairs maintained throughout
•Emphasis on controlled, slow astronaut movements
•Teaching proper jumping and landing technique
•Regular reminders about space awareness

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all pairs during creation time
•Monitor jumping technique closely
•Watch for partnership dynamics and support where needed

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal established (clap), clear pathways to exit, first aid kit accessible