Dance 1 - Lesson 4

In Year 1's Dance 1, Lesson 4, the young dancers are encouraged to express themselves through movement inspired by the colour white. The learning objectives are clear: to select and use a variety of movements to form a short dance phrase, and to respond imaginatively to stimuli. Success is measured by the pupils' ability to explore and repeat movements with coordination, and to give and receive feedback with the support of the teacher. Key vocabulary such as 'phrase', 'pathways', 'energy/weight', and a range of movement descriptors like 'rise', 'curl', 'float', and 'drift' are introduced. The lesson is supported by equipment such as gymnastic mats and colour-themed books, which serve as creative stimuli.

The session starts with a warm-up in the designated dance zone, where pupils perform a variety of travelling steps and play 'Copy Cats' to mimic movements. The main part of the lesson invites pupils to draw on previous experiences with the elements and translate the concept of white steam into dance. They explore different movements associated with steam, using body parts and actions to express words like 'rise', 'curl', and 'float'. Pupils then collaborate to create and perform their own dance phrases, imagining themselves as clouds of steam. They work in pairs, mirroring each other's movements, culminating in a performance where they receive constructive feedback based on the success criteria. The lesson concludes with a cool-down activity that includes stretching and breathing exercises, ensuring a calm transition back to class.