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Lesson 3 - Memory & Unison Performance

Māori Haka Expression

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Year 8

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Dance

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59 min

Big Question

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

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate accurate movement memory by recalling and performing multi-phrase Haka sequences
Execute movements in unison with precise timing and coordination with peers
Apply rhythm and tempo control to enhance cultural dance expression

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully combine three distinct Haka phrases into a flowing sequence
Students will demonstrate synchronised movement with peers showing cultural respect
Students will evaluate their own and others' performance using appropriate dance vocabulary

Equipment & Resources Required

Rhythm Instruments

8 (one per group of 4)

Distributed around room initially, then collected centrally for distribution

Alternative: Wooden blocks, shakers, or hand clapping if instruments unavailable

Tunnel Systems

Positioned centrally for whole room coverage, volume adjustable

Alternative: Portable speaker with phone/tablet connection

Cones

4 sets

Mark four distinct circuit stations in room corners

Alternative: Cones, floor spots, or tape markers

Key Vocabulary

Movement memory

The ability to remember and accurately repeat movement sequences without prompting

Unison

Moving together at exactly the same time with identical movements

Sequence

A series of movements performed in a specific order

Coordination

Controlling multiple body parts smoothly together while maintaining rhythm

Tempo

The speed of the performance, which can vary to create different effects

Circuit training

Moving through different exercise stations in rotation

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic Haka stance and arm movements
Understanding of cultural context and respect
Simple rhythm and beat recognition
Experience working in small groups

Current Skills

Multi-phrase movement memory
Unison and timing coordination
Percussion instrument integration
Performance evaluation skills

Next Steps

Complex choreographic sequences
Advanced rhythmic variations
Leadership in cultural dance
Cross-cultural dance comparisons

Milestone Indicators

Students can perform complete sequence without prompting

Groups demonstrate tight synchronisation

Confident use of Māori chant with movements

Positive peer feedback and evaluation

Key Teaching Points

Cultural respect must be maintained throughout all Haka activities
Movement memory develops through repetition and quality practice, not just speed
Unison requires communication and cooperation within groups
Rhythm and movement work together to create powerful expression
Positive encouragement builds confidence in cultural dance performance
Safety in dynamic movements through controlled technique
Peer assessment develops critical observation and supportive feedback skills

Common Misconceptions

Haka is just aggressive movement - correct by emphasising storytelling and cultural meaning
Louder or faster is always better - focus on control and appropriate dynamics
Only boys can perform Haka powerfully - ensure all students feel empowered to participate
Individual performance is most important - emphasise group unity and cooperation
Movements don't need precision if you have enthusiasm - stress that respect requires accuracy

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use positive reinforcement frequently

dyspraxia

Slow down teaching pace, provide extra demonstration time, focus on one movement at a time, celebrate effort over precision

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine structure, allow practice time for transitions, offer quiet space if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use verbal cues for all movements, provide tactile guidance for hand positions, describe spatial arrangements clearly

hearing impairment

Emphasise visual demonstrations, use hand signals for timing, provide written rhythm patterns

physical disability

Adapt movements for seated performance, modify intensity levels, focus on achievable movement range

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Oral traditions, storytelling through movement, pronunciation of Māori words

Geography

New Zealand location, Māori settlements, Pacific Island cultures

History

Māori culture and traditions, cultural significance of war dances, New Zealand heritage

Music

Rhythm patterns, tempo variations, percussion techniques, call and response structures

PSHE

Cultural respect and diversity, teamwork and cooperation, building confidence through performance

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practice, central position during whole-class instruction and demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for movement accuracy, timing coordination, cultural respect, and group cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in if movements become unsafe, timing breaks down significantly, or cultural aspects are trivialized

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate movements at teaching speed first, then performance speed. Emphasise cultural respect in all demonstrations.

Verbal Cues

•'Sharp and strong movements!'
•'Listen to the rhythm!'
•'Remember the cultural meaning!'
•'Support your group members!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall or studio space minimum 15m x 20m for circle work and group movement

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, clear of obstacles, adequate ceiling height for arm movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Percussion instruments checked for damage and secure fastenings
•Music system volume at appropriate level to prevent hearing damage
•Corner markers stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during circle game racing
•Overexertion during warm-up circuit
•Inappropriate force during chest striking movements
•Slips during dynamic movements

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all movement areas
•Adequate spacing maintained between groups throughout
•Demonstration of appropriate force for all movements
•Progressive intensity building in warm-up

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups during independent practice
•Monitor circle game for safe racing patterns
•Check chest striking technique for safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess need for first aid, clear safe area for treatment