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Lesson 1 - Vikings Motif Development

Viking Narrative Dance

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Year 4

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Dance

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54 min

Big Question

How can we use our knowledge of Vikings to create expressive dance movements that tell their story?

Learning Objectives

To share what we know about the Vikings theme and contribute to collaborative learning
To creatively translate Viking-related words and ideas into expressive dance movements
To demonstrate good timing, posture, and extension in our movement sequences

Key Outcomes

Students will have created and performed a 32-48 count Vikings motif using collaborative choreography
Students will demonstrate improved agility, balance, coordination and precision in their movements
Students will have contributed meaningfully to theme-related discussions and movement creation

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

1 set

Position for clear sound throughout hall

Alternative: Tablet/phone with portable speaker

Whiteboards

Visible to all students when seated in listening area

Alternative: Large paper sheets, interactive whiteboard

Sun Markers

2-3

Different colours for organising mind map

Alternative: Coloured pens for flipchart

Vikings Themed Music

2-3 tracks

Suggested: 'Northmen' soundtrack, 'Vikings Attack' TV series soundtrack

Alternative: Any dramatic instrumental music

Key Vocabulary

Motif

A short sequence of movements that can be repeated and developed

Timing

Moving in time with the music or counts, showing rhythm and control

Extension

Stretching body parts fully to create clear, strong lines

Dynamics

How movements are performed - with strength, softness, sharpness or flow

Improvisation

Creating movements spontaneously without planning

Choreography

Planning and arranging movements into a sequence

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of rhythm and beat from previous dance lessons
Ability to copy simple movement patterns
Experience working in groups and following instructions
Basic knowledge of historical topics from curriculum

Current Skills

Developing motifs that demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision
Translating abstract concepts into physical movements
Working collaboratively to create group choreography
Using feedback to improve performance quality

Next Steps

Creating longer, more complex dance sequences
Incorporating partner and group formations
Developing personal style and interpretation
Leading choreography sessions with peers

Milestone Indicators

Consistent demonstration of all three Viking actions with control

Ability to create at least two original movements representing Viking themes

Successful memorisation and performance of the complete 32-48 count motif

Constructive participation in feedback and discussion sessions

Key Teaching Points

Always demonstrate movements clearly before asking students to practice
Use the Vikings theme consistently to maintain engagement and context
Build complexity gradually from simple actions to full 44-count motif
Encourage creative interpretation while maintaining safety and control
Connect movement quality to dance vocabulary throughout the lesson
Balance individual exploration with structured group learning
Use positive reinforcement to build confidence in performance

Common Misconceptions

Vikings were only violent warriors - emphasise their roles as explorers, traders, and settlers
Dance requires perfect technique - focus on expression and creativity over technical perfection
Boys can't or shouldn't dance - ensure all students feel included and valued
Feedback should only point out mistakes - teach constructive, positive feedback skills
Historical themes limit creative expression - show how themes can inspire diverse interpretations

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement as positive outlet

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller parts, provide extra practice time, use peer support and modelling

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedule of lesson sections, offer quiet observation opportunities

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of all movements, provide tactile guidance for body positions, use partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations throughout, provide written instructions on board, use hand signals for timing cues

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated performance, focus on upper body actions, provide alternative movements for rolling sequence

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, creative expression, speaking and listening during discussions and feedback

Art

Creative expression through movement, understanding how different art forms can represent themes

Geography

Understanding Viking routes, settlements, and their impact on different regions

History

Learning about Vikings, their culture, travels, and historical significance in British history

Music

Rhythm and timing, listening to themed music, understanding how music supports storytelling

PSHE

Collaborative learning, giving and receiving feedback, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around the space to observe all students, position yourself where you can see and be seen by everyone

Observation Focus

Watch for safe movement, creative interpretation, timing and coordination, peer interaction quality

Intervention Points

Step in if movements become unsafe, support struggling students, redirect off-task behaviour, provide additional demonstrations

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements clearly before asking students to try, face class for initial demo then turn back for students to copy, exaggerate movements for visibility

Verbal Cues

•'Show me strong Viking warriors!'
•'Think about your timing with the music'
•'Extend those arms like powerful Vikings!'
•'Find your own space to explore'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 8m x 12m clear space, suitable for 30 students moving simultaneously

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip floor free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
•Whiteboard/flipchart secured and positioned for visibility
•No trailing wires or electrical hazards in movement space

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during free movement
•Falls during rolling sequence in Viking King section
•Overexertion during energetic Viking actions
•Loss of balance during shooting sequence

Risk Mitigation

•Clear personal space boundaries established and maintained
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Controlled demonstrations of all movements before student practice
•Adequate rest and breathing spaces built into lesson structure

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during movement activities
•Move around space during exploration to monitor and support
•Pay particular attention during rolling and balance sequences
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed