Lesson 1 - Bollywood Dance Basics
Bollywood & Line Dance Fusion
•Year 5
•Dance
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How can we express ourselves through traditional Bollywood dance movements while staying in one spot?
Learning Objectives
- To understand and perform non-locomotor movements in dance
- To apply basic Bollywood actions including step touch and Bangra shoulders
- To create and perform a short dance phrase combining learned movements
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate understanding of non-locomotor movement principles
- Students will perform Bollywood-style movements with increasing confidence and accuracy
- Students will create their own dance phrase incorporating traditional and personal movements
Equipment & Resources Required
Position centrally for clear audio throughout space
Alternative: Portable speaker, tablet with good volume
Test audio levels before lesson, have backup options ready
Alternative: YouTube playlist, Spotify playlist
Ensure all students can see Slumdog Millionaire clip clearly
Alternative: Interactive whiteboard, projector
Distribute around space with 2m spacing between each
Alternative: Chalk marks, tape squares, bean bags
Display around room to create cultural context
Alternative: Printouts, digital display
Key Vocabulary
Movement performed in one spot without travelling through space
A style of dance from Indian cinema featuring expressive arm movements and rhythmic steps
Basic dance step where one foot steps out and the other touches beside it
Quick shoulder shrugging movement characteristic of Punjabi dance
A short sequence of connected dance movements
Performing movements at exactly the same time as others
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic body awareness and spatial understanding
- Simple rhythmic movements and clapping patterns
- Following instructions and moving in unison
Current Skills
- Non-locomotor movement control and understanding
- Traditional Bollywood dance actions
- Creating personal dance phrases
Next Steps
- Combining locomotor and non-locomotor movements
- More complex Bollywood choreography
- Partner and group dance compositions
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Non-locomotor movement means staying in one spot while moving your body
- Bollywood dance celebrates culture through expressive whole-body movement
- Step touch requires control: step to shoulder width, gentle touch return
- Bangra shoulders isolate the shoulder movement while keeping arms relaxed
- Cultural respect and appreciation must be maintained throughout
- Creative expression is valued - encourage personal interpretation
- Counting in 8s helps structure dance phrases and timing
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking non-locomotor means no movement at all - clarify it means not travelling through space
- Believing Bollywood dance is just arm movements - emphasise whole body expression
- Assuming cultural dance must be copied exactly - encourage respectful personal interpretation
- Thinking dance requires perfect technique immediately - emphasise progress and effort
- Believing boys or certain students 'can't dance' - ensure inclusive environment for all
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Short activity segments, physical movement breaks, clear boundaries with hoops, positive reinforcement system
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns initially, extra practice time, visual cues and demonstrations, peer buddy support
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available for breaks, predictable format
visual impairment
- Detailed verbal descriptions of movements, partner guidance system, tactile cues for positioning and rhythm
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations with clear sight lines, vibrotactile devices for rhythm, written instruction cards
physical disability
- Seated or supported standing variations, upper body focus for wheelchair users, adaptive movement options
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting in 8s for dance phrases, understanding rhythm and patterns, spatial awareness and positioning
Art
Appreciating visual elements of Bollywood costumes and set design, understanding how colour and movement express emotion
Geography
Learning about Indian culture and Bollywood's global influence, understanding cultural traditions in different countries
History
Exploring the development of Bollywood cinema and its cultural significance, understanding traditional dance heritage
Music
Understanding rhythm, beat, and musical phrasing in dance, exploring Indian musical instruments and styles
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position with clear view of all students, move to support individuals during creative time
Observation Focus
Watch for technical accuracy, cultural respect, creative expression, and safe movement practices
Intervention Points
Step in when movements become unsafe, when cultural discussions need guidance, or when students need technical support
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated movements for clarity, show cultural respect through your own expression, break down complex movements into manageable steps
Verbal Cues
- •'Stay in your spot - that's non-locomotor!'
- •'Soft landings on your feet!'
- •'Express the joy through your whole body!'
- •'Respect and celebrate our cultural learning!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m clear space, suitable for 30 students with 2m spacing
Surface Check
Non-slip surface essential for dance movements, clear of obstacles and debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Hoops checked for cracks or sharp edges
- •Audio equipment positioned safely away from movement area
- •Video display secured and positioned for safe viewing
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Slips during dynamic movements
- •Collisions between students
- •Overexertion during energetic sequences
- •Cultural insensitivity issues
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear personal space boundaries using hoops
- •Non-locomotor emphasis reduces collision risk
- •Regular breaks and hydration reminders
- •Respectful cultural introduction and ongoing monitoring
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all students during movement
- •Monitor for safe landing techniques
- •Watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort
- •Ensure appropriate cultural discussions
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required