Lesson 1 - British Values Through Movement
Expressing British Values Through Creative Dance and Choreography
•Year 5
•Dance
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
Sign up free to access 3 complete units per month, unlimited activity library, and your personal locker.
What's included
- Complete activity instructions & timing
- Teaching tips & differentiation strategies
- Assessment guidance & success criteria
- Downloadable lessons & units
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
Position for clear audio throughout space
Alternative: Bluetooth speaker, tablet with speakers
Display clearly visible from dance area
Alternative: Printed pictures, whiteboard drawings, digital display
Place in four corners of room with answer options
Alternative: Cones, laminated cards, coloured spots
Pre-loaded and tested for clear playback
Alternative: Land of Hope and Glory, James Bond Theme, other patriotic music
Positioned for mind mapping activity
Alternative: Large paper, digital display
Key Vocabulary
The fundamental principles that define British society: Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect, and Tolerance
A system where everyone has a voice and can vote on decisions
Everyone follows the same laws and rules fairly
Freedom to make your own choices within the law
Treating others the way you want to be treated
Accepting and respecting people who are different from you
A short sequence of movements that can be repeated and developed
Performing the same movements at exactly the same time
The beats in music that help dancers stay in time
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
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