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Lesson 4 - Chance Choreography Basics

Decades of Dance Expression

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Year 7

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Dance

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Big Question

How can we use random elements to create purposeful and engaging dance choreography that tells a story through movement?

Learning Objectives

To work collaboratively in small groups to create original dance sequences
To effectively apply chance choreography techniques in dance creation
To demonstrate understanding of choreographic devices including formation, dynamics, canon, unison, direction and level

Key Outcomes

Students will create a 32-64 count dance sequence using chance choreography methods
Students will demonstrate effective use of at least 4 choreographic devices
Students will perform with confidence and evaluate peer performances constructively

Equipment & Resources Required

Tunnel Systems

Positioned centrally with clear volume for all students

Alternative: Portable speaker with phone/tablet connection

Dice

1 per group (8 total)

Distributed to group leaders at start of main activity

Alternative: Random number generator app, numbered cards

Pencils

1 set per group

Available at equipment station for students to collect

Alternative: Mini whiteboards, tablets for digital notes

Sun Markers

Positioned where all students can see movement list clearly

Alternative: Flip chart, projected slides

Yoga Mats

Stacked at side of room for students who want them for floorwork

Alternative: Towels for floor work

Key Vocabulary

Chance Choreography

A method of creating dance using random elements like dice rolls to determine movements, creating unexpected and creative combinations

Formation

The arrangement and positioning of dancers in space, including lines, circles, triangles, and scattered patterns

Canon

When dancers perform the same movement but starting at different times, creating a ripple or wave effect

Unison

When all dancers perform exactly the same movement at exactly the same time

Dynamics

The quality of movement including sharp, smooth, strong, light, fast, and slow variations

Hip Hop

A street dance style that originated in the 1970s, characterized by rhythmic movements, isolations, and cultural expression

Top Rocking

Standing dance moves performed before going down to the floor in breakdancing

The 6 Step

A fundamental breakdancing floor pattern moving in a circular motion

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of rhythm and beat
Experience working in small groups
Knowledge of simple dance movements
Understanding of personal and general space

Current Skills

Application of chance choreography techniques
Hip hop movement vocabulary
Choreographic devices (formation, canon, unison, dynamics, direction, level)
Collaborative dance creation and performance

Next Steps

Advanced choreographic structures and narrative development
Complex hip hop techniques and battle styles
Cross-cultural dance fusion and adaptation
Independent choreographic projects and peer teaching

Milestone Indicators

Groups create cohesive sequences using all dice-generated moves

Clear demonstration of at least 4 choreographic devices

Confident performance with appropriate use of dynamics

Constructive peer feedback focusing on choreographic elements

Key Teaching Points

Emphasise that chance choreography can create unexpected beauty and creativity
Maintain authentic hip hop style and cultural respect throughout
Focus on group collaboration and inclusive decision-making processes
Connect movement quality to music rhythm and dynamics
Celebrate diverse creative solutions to the same chance elements
Encourage risk-taking and creative problem-solving within safe boundaries
Build confidence through progressive skill development and positive feedback

Common Misconceptions

That random/chance means chaotic or without purpose - explain how structure can emerge from random starting points
That hip hop is only about individual expression - emphasise community and group elements
That choreographic devices complicate rather than enhance movement - show how they add interest
That perfect technique is more important than authentic style and energy
That creativity cannot be taught or developed systematically

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear movement boundaries, offer leadership roles for engagement

dyspraxia

Simplify movement coordination, allow extra practice time, provide step-by-step movement breakdowns

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, offer quiet space if needed, use visual schedules for lesson sections

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of all movements, allow tactile exploration of formation shapes, provide audio cues for choreographic devices

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations with clear gestures, provide written instructions, use vibration cues for beat counting

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated/supported positions, modify hip hop moves for different mobility levels, ensure wheelchair accessibility

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Developing vocabulary for movement description, giving oral feedback, understanding chance as a literary and artistic device

Maths

Counting beats and measures, understanding numerical patterns in chance choreography, calculating probabilities of dice combinations

Art

Understanding composition and visual elements in formation design, exploring improvisation and chance in creative processes

History

Exploring hip hop culture origins in 1970s New York, understanding social and cultural contexts of street dance

PSHE

Building teamwork and communication skills, developing confidence and self-expression, respecting cultural diversity

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between groups during skill development, position at corner during performances for full class visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for creative problem-solving, effective group communication, technique development, and safe movement choices

Intervention Points

Step in if groups struggle with collaboration, if movement becomes unsafe, or if students need additional challenge

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate with full energy and authentic hip hop style; break down complex movements slowly before building to full speed

Verbal Cues

•'Keep that hip hop energy!'
•'How can you make this more interesting to watch?'
•'Remember to use your space!'
•'Great teamwork - you're listening to each other!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 10m x 15m clear dance space with non-slip surface suitable for dynamic movement

Surface Check

Clean, dry, even surface free from obstacles; check for any spills or debris before lesson

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Dice are large enough to prevent choking hazard
•Pencils stored safely to prevent trips
•Music system cables secured and not crossing walkways

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slips and falls during dynamic dance movements
•Collisions between groups during energetic sequences
•Overexertion during hip hop movements
•Inappropriate physical contact during group work

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established between group working areas
•Progressive skill building from standing to floor movements
•Regular breaks and hydration reminders
•Clear guidelines for appropriate physical contact in dance

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all groups during rehearsal
•Monitor high-energy activities for signs of fatigue
•Circulate during group work to ensure safe movement choices

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional support if needed