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Lesson 5 - Formation & Performance Skills

Māori Haka Expression

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Year 8

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Dance

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Big Question

How can we create powerful group formations that enhance our Haka performance and demonstrate unity as a tribe?

Learning Objectives

To create and perform coordinated movement sequences as part of a group
To demonstrate techniques learned through formation work and transitions
To develop performance skills including facial expressions and vocal projection

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully create and transition between four different formations
Students will perform their complete Haka sequence with confidence and unity
Students will demonstrate improved group coordination and performance skills

Equipment & Resources Required

Rhythm Instruments

1 per group (6-8 instruments)

Distributed to group leaders before formation work begins

Alternative: Wooden blocks, tambourines, or hands for clapping

Tunnel Systems

Pharrell 'Happy' queued up, volume tested for hall size

Alternative: Smartphone with speaker, tablet with Bluetooth speaker

Video Device

1 tablet/camera

Positioned for optimal viewing of performance area

Alternative: Smartphone on tripod, multiple devices for different angles

Cones

12-16

Mark formation positions and performance boundaries

Alternative: Sports bibs, chalk marks on floor

Key Vocabulary

Formation

An arranged pattern or shape made by a group of performers

Transition

Smooth movement from one position or formation to another

Routine

A complete sequence of movements performed together as a unit

Performance

Presenting the dance to an audience with confidence and projection

Technique

The skill and method of performing movements correctly and effectively

Unity

Working together as one cohesive group with shared timing and energy

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic Haka movements and chants from previous lessons
Understanding of rhythm and beat in dance
Experience working in small groups
Knowledge of cultural significance of Haka

Current Skills

Formation creation and transitions
Group coordination and timing
Performance projection and facial expressions
Complete sequence integration

Next Steps

Advanced choreographic techniques
Leadership in group performances
Creating original Haka variations
Cultural research and presentation skills

Milestone Indicators

Smooth transitions between formations taking exactly 8 counts

Synchronised movement across all group members

Confident vocal projection during chants

Authentic facial expressions and warrior stance

Key Teaching Points

Formation transitions must take exactly 8 counts to develop rhythm and precision
Group unity is more important than individual perfection in movements
Cultural respect must be maintained throughout all Haka elements and expressions
Performance projection requires confidence building and supportive atmosphere
Smooth transitions between unison and group work require clear signals and practice
Feedback should be specific and constructive to support learning progression
Safety awareness during formation changes prevents collisions and injuries

Common Misconceptions

Formation work is just about making shapes - actually requires timing, rhythm and group coordination
Scary faces should be silly or funny - they represent strength and cultural significance
Faster transitions are better - 8-count timing develops rhythm and control
Individual skill is most important - group unity and cooperation are the focus
Haka is just about being loud - requires technique, respect and cultural understanding
Competition means being better than others - it's about showing your best effort and learning

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice segments, varied activities, clear physical boundaries and expectations

dyspraxia

Simplified formation shapes, extra practice time for transitions, visual and verbal cues combined

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual formation cards, quiet space available for breaks

visual impairment

Use tactile formation markers, verbal descriptions of spacing, buddy system for positioning guidance

hearing impairment

Visual counting signals, vibration-based rhythm awareness, clear hand signals for formation changes

physical disability

Modified formations allowing wheelchair access, seated performance elements, adapted movement ranges

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Geometric shapes in formations, counting 8-beat transitions, spatial awareness and angles

Drama

Performance skills, facial expressions, projection and stage presence

Geography

New Zealand location, Maori tribal territories, cultural mapping

History

Maori culture and traditions, significance of Haka in New Zealand society

Music

Rhythm and beat in movement, tempo changes, percussion use and musical structure

PSHE

Cultural respect and understanding, teamwork, self-confidence and personal expression

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during formation work, central position for demonstrations and music control

Observation Focus

Watch for formation precision, group cooperation, cultural respect, and safety spacing

Intervention Points

Step in if formations become unsafe, groups struggle with cooperation, or cultural elements become inappropriate

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: All formations clearly showing spacing and timing, warrior expressions with cultural respect, smooth transitions with rhythm awareness

Verbal Cues

•'Warriors move as one!'
•'Find your formation power!'
•'Show your tribal strength!'
•'8 counts - make them count!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m clear space for formation work and tribal battles

Surface Check

Non-slip surface essential, clear of any obstacles or equipment

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Percussion instruments checked for no sharp edges or loose parts
•Video equipment positioned safely away from movement areas
•Cones and markers stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during formation transitions
•Falls during quick grouping activities
•Overexertion during energetic sequences

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all group work
•Adequate spacing maintained between groups throughout
•Gradual build-up of intensity with proper warm-up
•Cultural sensitivity maintained in all Haka elements

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all groups during formation work
•Monitor formation transitions for safe spacing
•Observe energy levels and provide rest breaks if needed

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid support, clear space for emergency access if required