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Lesson 4 - Line Dance Patterns

Bollywood & Line Dance Fusion

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Year 5

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Dance

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Big Question

How do line dancers stay in perfect synchronisation while changing directions?

Learning Objectives

Describe the key characteristics of line dancing and its cultural origins
Perform basic line dancing steps in time with music and peers
Execute 1, 2, and 4 wall pattern dances with accurate turns

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of line dancing terminology and features
Students will perform coordinated line dance sequences to 8-beat patterns
Students will successfully complete quarter and half turns while maintaining rhythm

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Position centrally for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Portable speaker with phone/tablet connection

Country/Line Dancing Music Playlist

Test volume levels and beat clarity before lesson

Alternative: Traditional American country music with clear beat

Sun Markers

Place at head height on each wall for easy reference

Alternative: Coloured cones, posters, or signs to mark each wall

PE Equipment

Position where all students can see demonstration videos

Alternative: Projector, interactive whiteboard, or large screen

Key Vocabulary

Line Dancing

A choreographed dance with repeated sequences performed in lines without physical contact between dancers

Wall Pattern

The number of walls dancers face during a complete dance sequence (1, 2, or 4 walls)

Quarter Turn

A 90-degree turn to face the next wall in the room

Half Turn

A 180-degree turn to face the opposite direction

Grapevine

A sideways travelling step: step to side, step behind, step to side, tap and clap

Unison

Performing movements at exactly the same time as everyone else

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic counting and rhythm awareness from music lessons
Simple movement patterns from previous dance units
Understanding of directional movement (forwards, backwards, sideways)

Current Skills

Line dancing step patterns and terminology
Coordination of movement with musical beats
Spatial awareness in group formations
Understanding of wall patterns and turns

Next Steps

More complex line dancing routines with arm movements
Partner and group country dancing
Choreographing original dance sequences
Performance skills and stage presence

Milestone Indicators

Can maintain rhythm throughout entire sequences

Executes turns without losing formation

Demonstrates leadership in guiding others

Shows creativity in adding personal style

Key Teaching Points

Count clearly and consistently to maintain rhythm throughout all activities
Demonstrate all movements facing students using mirroring technique
Emphasise controlled turns to prevent dizziness and maintain formation
Link movements to musical beats to develop timing skills
Encourage peer support and cooperation during pair work
Build complexity gradually from simple steps to complete wall patterns
Celebrate cultural heritage and significance of line dancing traditions

Common Misconceptions

Students may think line dancing is just about country music - explain its cultural significance and variety
Some may believe faster is better - emphasise control and accuracy over speed
Students might not understand wall patterns - use physical demonstration with classroom walls
May think individual performance matters most - stress importance of unison and formation
Could assume turns should be rushed - teach measured, controlled turning technique

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide additional movement breaks, use clear visual and verbal cues

dyspraxia

Slow down demonstrations, provide additional practice time, break complex movements into smaller components

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and predictable routines, use visual schedules, offer quiet space if needed for sensory breaks

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of movements, provide tactile guidance for foot positions, ensure adequate contrast for wall markers

hearing impairment

Use visual cues and hand signals for counting, provide visual rhythm patterns, ensure clear sight lines for demonstrations

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated or supported positions, modify stepping patterns, provide alternative ways to show rhythm

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Understanding degrees of rotation (90°, 180°, 360°), counting in 4s and 8s, symmetry and pattern recognition

Art

Pattern and sequence design, costume and cultural expression through movement

Geography

Cardinal directions (north, south, east, west), spatial awareness and orientation, mapping concepts

History

American cultural heritage, development of folk traditions, migration of cultural practices

Music

Beat and rhythm recognition, tempo and timing, cultural music traditions

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at front during demonstrations, move around perimeter during practice to observe all students

Observation Focus

Watch for timing accuracy, formation maintenance, safe turning technique, and peer cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if students become dizzy, correct unsafe movements immediately, support struggling partnerships

Demonstration Notes

Always face students when demonstrating so they see movements correctly, exaggerate key movements for clarity, use mirroring technique

Verbal Cues

•'Listen to the beat!'
•'Keep your formation!'
•'Controlled turns!'
•'Help your partner!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 15m x 12m, or suitable hall/gymnasium with clear floor area

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface essential for safe stepping and turning movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check sound system volume levels appropriate for space
•Ensure trailing cables are safely positioned
•Verify wall markers are securely attached and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slips and falls during stepping sequences
•Collisions during direction changes and turns
•Dizziness from repeated turning movements
•Muscle strain from repetitive movements

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries and adequate spacing
•Demonstrate proper turning technique to prevent dizziness
•Include appropriate warm-up and cool-down
•Monitor for fatigue and provide rest breaks

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students during turns
•Monitor spacing during formation changes
•Watch for signs of dizziness or fatigue

Emergency Procedures

Establish clear stop signal, know location of first aid kit, ensure exit routes remain clear throughout lesson