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Lesson 1 - British Values Through Movement

Expressing British Values Through Creative Dance and Choreography

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Year 5

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Dance

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58 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to express the values that unite us as British citizens?

Learning Objectives

Identify and understand all five British Values and their meanings
Create imaginative movement sequences that represent different British Values
Develop a collaborative 48-64 count motif with good timing and unison performance

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate understanding of British Values through creative movement
Students will perform a coordinated dance motif representing all five British Values
Students will show improved agility, balance, coordination and precision in dance movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Music Player

Position for clear audio throughout space

Alternative: Bluetooth speaker, tablet with speakers

Cards

1 set

Display clearly visible from dance area

Alternative: Printed pictures, whiteboard drawings, digital display

Cones

Place in four corners of room with answer options

Alternative: Cones, laminated cards, coloured spots

Music Tracks

Multiple

Pre-loaded and tested for clear playback

Alternative: Land of Hope and Glory, James Bond Theme, other patriotic music

Whiteboards

Positioned for mind mapping activity

Alternative: Large paper, digital display

Key Vocabulary

British Values

The fundamental principles that define British society: Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect, and Tolerance

Democracy

A system where everyone has a voice and can vote on decisions

Rule of Law

Everyone follows the same laws and rules fairly

Individual Liberty

Freedom to make your own choices within the law

Mutual Respect

Treating others the way you want to be treated

Tolerance

Accepting and respecting people who are different from you

Motif

A short sequence of movements that can be repeated and developed

Unison

Performing the same movements at exactly the same time

Count

The beats in music that help dancers stay in time

Choreography

The art of creating and arranging dance movements

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic locomotor movements (walking, running, skipping)
Simple rhythm and beat awareness
Basic understanding of rules and fairness

Current Skills

Translating abstract concepts into physical movement
Creating choreographed sequences with specific counts
Performing in unison with musical accompaniment

Next Steps

Developing longer, more complex dance sequences
Advanced choreographic techniques and formations
Performance skills with costume and staging

Milestone Indicators

Can create movements that clearly represent abstract concepts

Maintains timing and rhythm throughout extended sequences

Shows leadership in group choreography sessions

Key Teaching Points

British Values are fundamental principles that unite our society and can be expressed through movement
Abstract concepts can be translated into physical movements that tell meaningful stories
Unison performance requires listening, watching, and cooperating with others
Dance can be a powerful way to explore and celebrate our shared values and identity
Respect and tolerance are shown through how we work together and appreciate different ideas
Timing and rhythm in dance reflect the importance of working together in harmony
Creative expression allows us to show our understanding in personal and meaningful ways

Common Misconceptions

British Values are only about being patriotic - actually they're about fairness, respect, and working together
Dance movements must be 'correct' - creativity and personal interpretation are valued
Some students may think British Values exclude other cultures - emphasise inclusion and tolerance
Complex movements are better - simple, clear movements that show understanding are most effective
Only confident dancers can participate - everyone can express British Values through movement
Unison means robotic - it means coordinated while still showing personal commitment to the values

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

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

dyspraxia

Simplify complex sequences, provide additional practice time, break movements into smaller components

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedule for lesson sections, create quiet space if needed for breaks

visual impairment

Provide clear verbal descriptions of all movements, use partner support, describe spatial arrangements clearly

hearing impairment

Use visual cues and demonstrations, provide visual timing cues, ensure clear line of sight to teacher

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated or supported positions, focus on upper body or achievable movements, include alternative ways to participate

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, storytelling through movement, communication and discussion skills

Art

Creative expression, interpreting abstract concepts visually through movement

Geography

Understanding British culture and identity, place and community

History

Learning about British history, democracy development, and cultural heritage

Music

Rhythm, timing, musical appreciation and performance with accompaniment

PSHE

Understanding citizenship, British Values, community responsibility and mutual respect

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during instruction, move around room during activities for individual support

Observation Focus

Watch for understanding of British Values concepts, quality of movement, and group cooperation

Intervention Points

["Step in if movements become inappropriate or disrespectful", "Provide additional support for students struggling with abstract concepts", "Guide timing if group becomes out of sync"]

Demonstration Notes

Model each movement with clear intention, show the meaning behind actions, demonstrate pride and confidence in British Values

Verbal Cues

•'Show me democracy in your movement!'
•'Feel the strength of your individual liberty!'
•'Together on 1, 2, 3, 4!'
•'Let your movement tell the story of respect!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or studio space minimum 10m x 10m, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, non-slip surface suitable for dance movement, free from hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Music volume at safe level for extended use
•Visual aids securely displayed and not protruding
•Corner markers placed safely without creating trip hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during travelling movements
•Overexertion during sustained activity
•Inappropriate movements representing cultural/religious elements

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and traffic patterns established
•Regular hydration breaks during extended activity
•Sensitive handling of cultural representations with respect
•Adequate space between students during energetic movements

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during movement
•Monitor energy levels throughout lesson
•Be alert for any inappropriate content in movements

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, first aid accessible, clear evacuation route maintained