Lesson 3 - Mirror Image and Creative Expression
Expressing British Values Through Creative Dance and Choreography
•Year 5
•Dance
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How can we use our bodies to mirror British Values and communicate meaning through dance?
Learning Objectives
- To develop a 16-32 count pairs section using British Values imagery as stimulus
- To demonstrate effective communication and teamwork through mirror image work
- To include changes in level, direction and mirror image techniques in choreography
Key Outcomes
- Students will create an original pairs dance sequence inspired by British Values
- Students will demonstrate precise mirror image technique with a partner
- Students will combine individual and paired elements into a cohesive performance
Equipment & Resources Required
Place picture sets around the room for pairs to collect
Alternative: Printed images from internet, hand-drawn illustrations
Test volume and prepare Mission Impossible and James Bond tracks
Alternative: Tablet/phone with portable speaker
Mark boundaries of dance area for safety
Alternative: Bean bags, spots
Key Vocabulary
When one partner exactly copies the movements of another, as if looking in a mirror
An image, idea or piece of music that inspires movement and choreography
The beats in music that help dancers stay in time together
The planned arrangement of dance movements in a sequence
The fundamental principles that underpin British society: democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Understanding of basic dance movements and travel patterns
- Experience working individually to create motifs
- Knowledge of levels, pathways and directions in dance
Current Skills
- Mirror image technique with a partner
- Creating movements inspired by visual stimuli
- Combining individual and paired choreography
Next Steps
- Developing group choreography with multiple pairs
- Creating narrative dance pieces
- Advanced partnering techniques and lifts
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Mirror image requires opposite side movements - demonstrate clearly with confident students
- British Values can be shown through body language and movement quality, not just literal actions
- Counting out loud helps maintain synchronization between partners
- Slow, controlled movements are more effective than fast, complex ones for mirror work
- Encourage creative interpretation while maintaining clear connection to British Values themes
- Performance confidence grows through positive reinforcement and specific feedback
- Safety in partner work requires communication, control, and respect for others' abilities
Common Misconceptions
- Mirror image means copying the same side - correct by demonstrating that mirrors show opposite sides
- British Values must be shown literally - encourage abstract and emotional interpretations
- Faster movements are more impressive - emphasise control and quality over speed
- Perfect synchronization is required immediately - explain that mirror work improves with practice
- Dance is only about technique - highlight the importance of meaning and expression
- Feedback should focus on what went wrong - model positive, constructive feedback approaches
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Use shorter activity segments with clear transitions, provide movement breaks between reflection moments, assign specific roles during partner work
dyspraxia
- Break down mirror image into smaller components, use wall or chair for balance support during level changes, allow extra practice time for sequence memorization
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule of lesson sections, allow processing time for British Values concepts, offer quiet space if overstimulated by performance elements
visual impairment
- Use tactile cues for mirror image work, provide clear verbal descriptions of British Values images, pair with sighted partner for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations throughout, provide picture cards with written descriptions, use hand signals for timing and coordination
physical disability
- Adapt mirror image to seated or supported positions, modify level changes to arm/upper body movements, provide alternative ways to show direction changes
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Interpreting visual imagery and translating concepts into physical expression, developing vocabulary around values and movement
Maths
Counting beats and sequences, understanding patterns and symmetry in mirror image work
Art
Creating artistic interpretations through body movement, understanding how art can communicate meaning and emotion
History
Understanding the development of British democratic values and their importance in society
PSHE
Exploring British Values, developing teamwork and communication skills, building respect and tolerance
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Circulate around the hall's perimeter to observe all pairs, move to centre for demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for accurate mirror image technique, creative interpretation of British Values, effective partner communication
Intervention Points
Support pairs struggling with synchronization, provide movement suggestions for British Values interpretation, ensure all students are included
Demonstration Notes
Use confident students as demonstration partners, exaggerate movements for clarity, always model positive British Values through own behaviour and language
Verbal Cues
- •'Slow and smooth like honey'
- •'Eyes connected, bodies connected'
- •'Show me that British Value in your body'
- •'Mirror means opposite - my right, your left'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large indoor space minimum 15m x 10m, clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Non-slip, even surface suitable for dance movement, check for wet areas or debris
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Picture cards laminated to prevent paper cuts
- •Music equipment positioned safely away from movement area
- •Boundary markers placed to avoid tripping hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between pairs during travelling sequences
- •Falls during level changes or directional work
- •Overexertion during extended performance pieces
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for each pair's working space
- •Emphasis on controlled movements throughout
- •Progressive building of sequence complexity
- •Regular breaks and hydration reminders
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all pairs during mirror work
- •Circulate actively during choreography development
- •Monitor for fatigue during performance sections
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact school first aider if needed