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Lesson 3 - Hakka Movement and Expression

Cultural & Contemporary Expression

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Year 6

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Dance

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to create powerful, intimidating movements that tell a story of strength and tradition?

Learning Objectives

To remember and perform a simple phrase incorporating at least 3 actions
To use expression and power in dance movement
To develop movement action phrases collaboratively in groups of 4

Key Outcomes

Students will perform a 4-action Hakka sequence with power and expression
Students will demonstrate understanding of cultural context through movement
Students will work effectively in groups to create and refine movement phrases

Equipment & Resources Required

PE Equipment

1 set

Position where all students can see clearly

Alternative: Large screen, projector, or tablet for video viewing

Score Sheets

1 per group (8 sheets)

Available for groups to reference during practice

Alternative: Printed images or displayed on screen

Tunnel Systems

For playing rhythmic backing if desired

Alternative: Speakers with device connection capability

Markers Cones

8-12

To define group practice areas if needed

Alternative: Spots, hoops, or taped lines

Key Vocabulary

Hakka

A traditional Māori ceremonial dance performed to show strength and unity

Unison

Performing movements at exactly the same time as others

Expression

Using face and body to show emotion and meaning

Power

Strong, controlled movements that show strength and force

Gesture

A movement of part of the body to express meaning

Stance

The way you position your body and feet

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic locomotor movements (walking, jogging, jumping)
Simple dance actions and gestures
Experience working in small groups

Current Skills

Copying and performing specific cultural dance movements
Using facial expressions and gestures for dramatic effect
Creating movement phrases with others
Performing in unison with timing and coordination

Next Steps

Creating original movement sequences
Incorporating more complex formations and patterns
Developing narrative through dance
Leading warm-ups and teaching others

Milestone Indicators

Maintains strong, powerful posture throughout movements

Facial expressions enhance the intimidating effect

Group performs in perfect unison

Can explain cultural significance of movements

Key Teaching Points

Cultural respect and authenticity must be maintained throughout all activities
Power and expression are essential - movements should never be gentle or weak
Unison requires constant practice and counting - groups must work together
Facial expressions and stance are as important as arm and hand movements
Every movement should contribute to the intimidating, warrior-like effect
Safety during vigourous movement is paramount - monitor spacing and exertion
Building confidence for performance while maintaining cultural sensitivity

Common Misconceptions

Hakka is just aggressive dancing - CORRECT: It's a meaningful cultural ceremony showing unity and strength
Louder and faster means better - CORRECT: Control, power and unison are more important than volume or speed
It's only about intimidation - CORRECT: It's about respect, tradition, unity and cultural identity
All cultural dances are the same - CORRECT: Each has specific meaning, movements and cultural significance
Girls can't perform Hakka effectively - CORRECT: Power and expression transcend gender in dance
You need to be aggressive to perform well - CORRECT: You need controlled power and cultural respect

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear movement boundaries marked, frequent position changes, energetic movements channeled positively, regular refocus cues and praise for attention

dyspraxia

Slow breakdown of complex movements, extra practice time, visual and verbal cues combined, partner support for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear sequence structure provided visually, predictable routine with advance notice of changes, quiet space available if overwhelmed, choice of group or individual practice

visual impairment

Clear verbal descriptions of all movements, tactile guidance for hand and arm positions, audio descriptions of video content, partner support for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, written movement cards, vibration cues for timing, visual signals for group changes and direction

physical disability

Seated or modified standing versions of movements, focus on upper body expression and gestures, adapted arm movements maintaining cultural authenticity

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Vocabulary development, discussion skills, and cultural storytelling traditions

Art

Cultural symbols, traditional patterns, and visual representation of strength and unity

Geography

Learning about New Zealand, Māori culture, and Pacific island traditions and locations

History

Understanding indigenous cultures, traditional ceremonies, and cultural preservation

Music

Rhythm and timing, traditional chants, and cultural musical expressions

PSHE

Respect for diversity, cultural understanding, teamwork, and building confidence

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, circulate between groups during practice, clear view of all students during performances

Observation Focus

Watch for authentic cultural representation, powerful movement execution, group cooperation and unison, safety during vigourous activity

Intervention Points

Step in if cultural content not treated respectfully, if groups struggling with cooperation, if movement quality declining due to fatigue

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements with full power and expression, emphasise cultural significance, show contrast between weak and strong versions, model respectful discussion of Māori culture

Verbal Cues

•'Show me warrior strength!'
•'Eyes wide, tongues out - be intimidating!'
•'Count together - stay in unison!'
•'Respect the culture - show your power!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 15m x 20m, clear of obstacles and projections

Surface Check

Non-slip surface suitable for vigourous movement, adequate grip for jumping and turning

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Video equipment securely positioned and cables managed
•Reference sheets laminated or protected from damage
•Space markers positioned safely away from movement areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during energetic group movement
•Overexertion during powerful Hakka movements
•Loss of balance during jumping and turning
•Cultural insensitivity or inappropriate behaviour

Risk Mitigation

•Clear group boundaries and adequate spacing maintained
•Regular checks on student exertion levels and fatigue
•Progressive skill building from simple to complex movements
•Strong emphasis on cultural respect throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups during practice
•Monitor intensity levels during vigourous movement
•Ensure cultural content is treated with appropriate respect

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately for any injuries, standard first aid protocols, cool down gradually if stopping due to overexertion