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Lesson 6 - Carnival Performance and Reflection

Brazilian Carnival: Authentic Samba Performance and Cultural Expression

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Year 6

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Dance

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Big Question

How can we perform like excellent dancers and celebrate our creative journey?

Learning Objectives

To perform carnival dance sequences with technical control and rhythmic accuracy
To demonstrate leadership skills and evaluate dance performances using specific criteria
To reflect on the learning journey and celebrate achievements in dance

Key Outcomes

Students will perform their complete carnival choreography with confidence and flair
Students will assess performances using clear criteria and provide constructive feedback
Students will demonstrate understanding of what makes excellent dance performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Position for clear sound across entire performance space

Alternative: Portable speaker with good bass for Samba music

Thematic Music Playlist

Test volume levels and have backup device ready

Alternative: Various carnival music tracks at different tempos

flags

1 per group

Distribute to groups before performance

Alternative: Coloured scarves, ribbons, or handmade flags

Costumes

As available

Allow students to add carnival flair to their outfit

Alternative: Coloured clothing, headbands, or accessories

Scorecards

1 per judge

Prepare evaluation criteria sheets

Alternative: Paper and pen for noting observations

Sun Markers

8-10 cones

Create clear performance space visible to all

Alternative: Chalk lines or tape for boundaries

Key Vocabulary

Stage presence

The ability to command attention and engage an audience during performance

Choreography

The art of designing and arranging dance movements and sequences

Rhythm

The pattern of beats and timing in music that dancers move to

Evaluation

Carefully judging the quality and effectiveness of a performance

Flair

Individual style and creative expression that makes a performance special

Carnival judge

A person who assesses carnival performances using specific criteria

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic Samba steps and rhythms
Group choreography creation
Performance confidence and stage presence
Understanding of carnival themes and movements

Current Skills

Advanced performance skills with audience awareness
Peer assessment and constructive feedback
Leadership and adaptability during performance
Reflection and evaluation of learning journey

Next Steps

Application of performance skills to other dance genres
Creating original choreography for different themes
Teaching dance skills to younger students
Exploring cultural dance traditions from around the world

Milestone Indicators

Confident performance with minimal teacher support

Accurate assessment using specific criteria

Evidence of creative flair and individual expression

Constructive reflection on personal growth

Key Teaching Points

Maintain carnival atmosphere throughout - enthusiasm and celebration are key to engagement
Balance performance pressure with enjoyment - emphasise creativity and effort over perfection
Use specific criteria consistently for assessment to help students understand quality indicators
Ensure all groups receive meaningful recognition and feedback regardless of performance level
Model positive audience behaviour and peer assessment to create supportive learning environment
Connect performance skills to broader learning about culture, creativity and personal expression
Celebrate the learning journey and personal growth as much as final performance quality

Common Misconceptions

Only 'good dancers' can succeed in carnival dance - emphasise that creativity and enthusiasm matter most
Performance must be technically perfect - focus on enjoyment, effort and creative expression
Winning the competition is most important - highlight that all groups achieve success through participation
Carnival dance is just 'moving to music' - help students understand the cultural significance and skill involved
Assessment is only about technical dance skills - include teamwork, creativity and personal growth
Shy students cannot perform well - provide support and celebrate different types of contribution and courage

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Structured high-energy activities matched to attention span, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive reinforcement

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns focusing on creativity over technical precision, extra practice time, peer support partnerships

autism spectrum

Clear structure with predictable performance order, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet reflection space available if needed

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of performance space and movements, tactile guidance for positioning, enhanced audio cues for rhythm

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of rhythm through movement, written performance criteria, vibrotactile feedback for music beat

physical disability

Adapted movements using available mobility, seated carnival dance variations, focus on upper body or achievable movements

Cross-Curricular Links

Art

Appreciation of carnival costumes, colours, visual design and creative expression through movement

Geography

Exploring Brazilian culture and Rio de Janeiro location, understanding carnival as global cultural celebration

History

Learning about origins of carnival celebrations and cultural traditions from different countries

Music

Understanding rhythm patterns, beat, tempo and how music influences movement and cultural expression

PSHE

Teamwork, confidence building, celebrating achievements, appreciating cultural diversity and expressing creativity

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around performance space to observe all groups while maintaining role as carnival judge

Observation Focus

Watch for technical control, group cooperation, creative expression, and safe movement

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggling with cooperation, students showing signs of overexertion, or safety concerns arising

Demonstration Notes

Take on carnival judge role enthusiastically, model positive feedback techniques, show appreciation for creativity and effort equally

Verbal Cues

•'Show me that carnival energy!'
•'Remember your group timing!'
•'Brilliant stage presence!'
•'Let's see that Samba rhythm!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or outdoor area minimum 15m x 20m for multiple group performances and audience

Surface Check

Non-slip surface suitable for energetic dance movements, clear of water or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Audio equipment positioned safely away from performance area
•Props checked for safety and appropriate size
•Performance space boundaries clearly marked

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between groups during simultaneous movement
•Overexertion during high-energy carnival performance
•Trips or falls during enthusiastic dance movements
•Props being used unsafely during performance

Risk Mitigation

•Clear performance area with adequate spacing between groups
•Regular reminders about controlled movement and spatial awareness
•Adult supervision during all performance activities
•Appropriate warm-up and cool-down to prevent injury

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all performance areas
•Monitor energy levels and provide rest breaks as needed
•Ensure inclusive participation and positive atmosphere

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, have contact details for emergency services readily available