Dance - Minibeasts - Lesson 5

In the fifth lesson of a dance series themed around minibeasts for Reception students, the class embarks on a creative journey to explore movement and shapes. The learning objectives are centred on the ability to create shapes within groups, with success criteria that include working collaboratively, identifying a range of shapes, and the ability to freeze and hold positions. Key vocabulary introduced in this lesson includes 'cluster', 'freeze', 'hibernate', and 'formation'. To facilitate the lesson, the teacher utilises minibeast posters, music recommendations, 2D shapes posters, and coloured cones. The warm-up session sets the tone with a dynamic activity where children run to cones of shouted colours and freeze in a position they can hold, followed by a series of stretches and movements to prepare their bodies for the main activities.

The core of the lesson involves the children emulating ladybirds, learning how these creatures hibernate in clusters during winter to stay warm. In groups of seven or eight, the children are tasked with forming various 2D shapes and objects by huddling together, mimicking the hibernation behaviour. To aid those who find it challenging, tape can be used to mark shapes on the floor for the children to fill in as a group. The session progresses to a game of musical statues, where children dance like ladybirds and freeze when the music stops. The cool-down phase allows for a calm reflection, with children taking turns to travel around the room as different minibeasts, while their peers guess which creature they are embodying. This lesson not only encourages physical activity but also fosters teamwork, creativity, and an understanding of the natural world.