Dance - Lesson 1

The inaugural dance lesson for Year 2 students is a dynamic exploration of movement inspired by the theme of fireworks. The learning objectives are clear: students are expected to select and explore air patterns, jumps, and shapes to create a short dance phrase that captures the essence of fireworks. The success criteria are equally well-defined, with an emphasis on the ability to exhibit varied sizes and shapes through different body movements, demonstrate creativity in balances, and work collaboratively while utilising simple dance vocabulary with teacher guidance. Key vocabulary terms such as 'phrase', 'skipping', 'galloping', 'running', 'marching', 'pathway', and 'mirroring' are introduced to enrich the students' understanding and expression of dance.

The lesson is structured to include a warm-up session where the students traverse the dance zone, marked by perimeter cones, while responding to musical cues with movements like jumps and freezes. A variety of equipment and resources are employed, including gymnastic mats, cones, and optional coloured pom-poms, alongside firework-themed music recommendations like Handel's 'Music for the Royal Fireworks' and Tchaikovsky's '1812 Overture'. The main session involves guided exercises that encourage students to embody the characteristics of different fireworks, such as the 'Sparkler' and 'Catherine Wheel', and culminates in a performance where pairs of students present their own dance phrases. Feedback is encouraged, fostering a supportive environment for learning and improvement. To conclude, a cool-down period provides an opportunity for stretching and reflection on the body's movements, ensuring a holistic and thoughtful approach to the dance lesson.