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Lesson 4 - Group Poses & Transitions

Chance to Choreography Exploration

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Year 5

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Dance

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1h 9min

Big Question

How can we create powerful group poses that tell a story and flow smoothly together like frames in a film?

Learning Objectives

To link poses with smooth, choreographed transitions
To create group poses that demonstrate connection and artistic expression
To develop movements that flow smoothly within collaborative choreography

Key Outcomes

Students will perform three distinct group poses with 4-count holds
Students will create personalised transition movements between poses
Students will demonstrate collaborative choreography skills in groups of four

Equipment & Resources Required

Beats Audio

1 audio file for warm-up

Test audio system before lesson begins

Alternative: Any music with clear beats and pauses

Tunnel Systems

Position for even sound distribution across hall

Alternative: Portable speaker with good volume

Key Vocabulary

Snapshot

A moment frozen in time, like a photograph

Group pose

A still position created by multiple people working together

Transition

Movement that connects one pose to another

Levels

Different heights in dance - high, medium, low

Choreography

The planned sequence of movements in a dance

Contact

Physical connection between dancers

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of levels (high, medium, low)
Ability to hold individual balances and poses
Experience working in pairs and small groups

Current Skills

Creating group poses with physical connection
Linking movements with smooth transitions
Working collaboratively in choreographic process

Next Steps

Creating longer dance sequences with narrative themes
Incorporating props and music interpretation
Developing performance skills and artistic expression

Milestone Indicators

Holds group poses with stability for full 4 counts

Moves smoothly between poses without losing connection to group

Demonstrates clear understanding of 'snapshot' theme in movement choices

Key Teaching Points

Group poses must show physical connection between all members
Poses should be held with complete stillness for exactly 4 counts
Transitions should be safe, controlled movements that connect poses logically
Use of different levels (high, medium, low) makes poses more interesting
Each group member may use different transitions while maintaining timing
Quality and control are more important than complex movements
Dance terminology should be used in all feedback and discussion

Common Misconceptions

That all group members must do identical movements (they can have individual transitions)
That complex moves are better (simple, well-executed moves are preferable)
That poses don't need to be held still (snapshot concept requires stillness)
That feedback should focus on personal preferences rather than technical elements
That transitions should be rushed (smooth, controlled movement is key)
That physical contact in group poses is inappropriate (appropriate connection is essential)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice segments, clear physical boundaries, regular movement breaks built in

dyspraxia

Extra support for pose positioning, simplified transitions, additional practice time

autism spectrum

Clear structure with visual timetable, quiet practice space available, predictable routine

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of poses, tactile guidance for positioning, ensure clear audio cues for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for timing, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Adapt poses to wheelchair/seated positions, modify transitions to suit mobility, use upper body focus

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Creating narrative through movement sequences, understanding structure in storytelling

Maths

Counting beats and timing, understanding geometric shapes and levels, spatial relationships

Art

Understanding composition, visual balance, and artistic expression through body positioning

Drama

Use of space, character expression through body position, performance skills

PSHE

Cooperation, communication skills, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move freely between groups during creation phase, central position for demonstrations and instructions

Observation Focus

Watch for creativity in pose construction, group cooperation, safe movement practices, and understanding of snapshot theme

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggling with pose stability, unsafe transitions, or lack of cooperation

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with a group of students to show realistic expectations, exaggerate stillness in poses, show variety of transition options

Verbal Cues

•'Freeze like a photograph!'
•'Connect with your group!'
•'Smooth transitions like flowing water!'
•'Show me different levels!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum hall space 15m x 12m, clear of obstacles and with non-slip surface

Surface Check

Ensure floor is clean, dry, and free from any objects that could cause slips or falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check audio equipment is positioned safely away from movement areas
•Ensure cables are tucked away or covered
•Test volume levels to avoid startling students

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during group transitions
•Falls during pose creation or transitions
•Inappropriate physical contact during group poses

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear boundaries for group working spaces
•Demonstrate appropriate ways to make physical connection
•Monitor all rolling and sliding movements closely
•Ensure adequate spacing between groups during transitions

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all groups during creation phase
•Move between groups during practice to check stability of poses
•Monitor closely during transition movements

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, apply first aid if trained, contact office if serious injury