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Lesson 3 - Mirror Image and Creative Expression

Expressing British Values Through Creative Dance and Choreography

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Year 5

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

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

Cards

1 set per pair (15 sets)

Place picture sets around the room for pairs to collect

Alternative: Printed images from internet, hand-drawn illustrations

Music Player

Test volume and prepare Mission Impossible and James Bond tracks

Alternative: Tablet/phone with portable speaker

Cones

8-10

Mark boundaries of dance area for safety

Alternative: Bean bags, spots

Key Vocabulary

Mirror image

When one partner exactly copies the movements of another, as if looking in a mirror

Stimulus

An image, idea or piece of music that inspires movement and choreography

Count

The beats in music that help dancers stay in time together

Choreography

The planned arrangement of dance movements in a sequence

British Values

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

Precise synchronisation in mirror image work

Clear connection between movements and British Values concepts

Smooth transitions between individual and paired sections

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