🎵

Lesson 3 - Memory & Unison Dance

Cultural Expression Through Haka Performance

•

Year 7

•

Dance

•

Big Question

How can we use movement memory and precise timing to create powerful group performances that honour cultural traditions?

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate movement memory by accurately recalling and performing learned Haka sequences
Show unison and timing through coordinated group performances with live percussion accompaniment
Apply cultural understanding and respect when performing traditional Māori movements

Key Outcomes

Students will perform a complete 3-part Haka sequence from memory with 90% accuracy
Groups will achieve synchronised movement and chanting with consistent timing
All students will demonstrate respectful engagement with Māori cultural traditions

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Position centrally for clear audio reach to all areas

Alternative: Portable speaker, tablet with Bluetooth speaker

Rhythm Instruments

6-8 (one per group)

Place in centre of circle during skill development

Alternative: Wooden blocks, tambourines, or improvised percussion

Music Tracks

Digital track

Pre-loaded and tested for volume and clarity

Alternative: Any rhythmic music with clear beat, traditional Māori music

Markers Cones

4 sets

Mark four distinct circuit stations in room corners

Alternative: Bibs, floor tape, natural room corners

Key Vocabulary

Movement Memory

The ability to recall and accurately reproduce learned physical sequences without external prompts

Unison

Performing movements or chants at exactly the same time as a group, creating unified effect

Timing

The precise coordination of movements with rhythm, music, or other performers

Sequence

A series of movements performed in a specific order to create meaningful dance phrase

Tengate Tangate

Traditional Māori phrase used in Haka, performed with chest strikes for 2 counts

Puru Huru

Māori phrase meaning 'rain falling', performed with downward hand movements

Circuit Training

Exercise method using stations where different activities are performed in rotation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of Haka as Māori cultural expression from Lesson 1
Mastery of fundamental Haka stance and basic movements from Lesson 2
Experience with group work and following rhythm patterns

Current Skills

Movement memory development through complex sequence learning
Unison performance skills with live percussion accompaniment
Advanced coordination combining movement, voice, and timing

Next Steps

Creating original Haka-inspired movements respecting cultural boundaries
Leading group performances with confidence and authority
Applying learned timing and memory skills to other dance forms

Milestone Indicators

Performs entire sequence without prompting or hesitation

Maintains synchronisation even when tempo changes

Shows visible confidence and cultural respect in performance

Key Teaching Points

Cultural respect and understanding must underpin all physical practice
Movement memory develops through progressive complexity and repetition
Unison performance requires active listening and group awareness
Live percussion adds authenticity but requires careful volume control
Individual skill supports group achievement in cultural dance forms
Timing accuracy is essential for powerful group performance impact
Safety considerations include both physical and cultural sensitivity

Common Misconceptions

Haka is just about being loud and aggressive - correct by emphasising controlled power and cultural meaning
Perfect movement memory happens immediately - show how practice and repetition build skill gradually
Cultural dances can be performed without understanding meaning - always connect movement to cultural significance
Timing only matters for the individual - demonstrate how group timing creates unified impact
Mistakes in cultural performance are disrespectful - emphasise learning process and sincere effort
Percussion is just background noise - show how rhythm drives and supports the dance

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Regular movement breaks, clear boundaries, immediate feedback, leadership opportunities

dyspraxia

Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, buddy support system, breaking complex sequences into smaller parts

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet observation options available

visual impairment

Verbal descriptions of movements, tactile guidance for hand positions, audio cues for timing

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration emphasis, vibration awareness for rhythm, written phrase guides

physical disability

Modified movements maintaining cultural respect, seated alternatives, adapted percussion roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Geography

New Zealand location, Pacific cultures, understanding of different world cultures and traditions

History

Study of Māori culture, New Zealand history, indigenous peoples' traditions and oral culture preservation

Music

Rhythm and timing, percussion instruments, vocal projection, cultural music traditions

PSHE

Respect for diversity, cultural understanding, teamwork, personal confidence, memory strategies

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around circle perimeter for optimal viewing, join circle during cultural discussions

Observation Focus

Monitor cultural respect, timing accuracy, group cooperation, and individual progress

Intervention Points

Step in for cultural sensitivity issues, safety concerns, or significant timing difficulties

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with cultural respect, emphasise authenticity over perfection, show clear timing cues

Verbal Cues

•'Feel the power in your movements!'
•'Listen to the rhythm and match it!'
•'Remember the cultural meaning behind each movement!'
•'Unity makes us stronger!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 15m x 15m, suitable for vigourous dance movements

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential, ensure dry conditions and clear of obstacles

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check drums and percussion for secure construction
•Ensure music system volume at safe levels
•Verify adequate space around circle for running game

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during circle game
•Overexertion during vigourous Haka movements
•Cultural insensitivity affecting learning environment
•Hearing damage from loud percussion or music

Risk Mitigation

•Clear movement boundaries and clockwise direction established
•Progressive intensity building with adequate warm-up
•Cultural context and respect emphasised throughout
•Volume monitoring and hearing protection awareness

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all students during circle activities
•Monitor percussion volume and technique
•Watch for signs of overexertion during intensive movements

Emergency Procedures

Standard first aid procedures, particular attention to potential collision injuries and heat-related issues