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Lesson 1 - Bollywood Dance Basics

Bollywood & Line Dance Fusion

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Year 5

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

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

Tunnel Systems

Position centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Portable speaker, tablet with good volume

Bollywood Music Playlist

Test audio levels before lesson, have backup options ready

Alternative: YouTube playlist, Spotify playlist

Video Device

Ensure all students can see Slumdog Millionaire clip clearly

Alternative: Interactive whiteboard, projector

Hoops

30 (1 per student)

Distribute around space with 2m spacing between each

Alternative: Chalk marks, tape squares, bean bags

Space Images

3-5

Display around room to create cultural context

Alternative: Printouts, digital display

Key Vocabulary

Non-locomotor

Movement performed in one spot without travelling through space

Bollywood

A style of dance from Indian cinema featuring expressive arm movements and rhythmic steps

Step touch

Basic dance step where one foot steps out and the other touches beside it

Bangra shoulders

Quick shoulder shrugging movement characteristic of Punjabi dance

Dance phrase

A short sequence of connected dance movements

Unison

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

Maintains contact with ground throughout movements

Performs movements in time with music

Shows cultural awareness and respect for Bollywood style

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