Dance - Lesson 2

In the second lesson of a Year 3 dance series, students are introduced to the energetic world of cheerleading. The lesson's objective is for the pupils to confidently perform basic cheerleading arm positions and movements in pairs. Success is measured by their ability to explore, repeat, and link actions with coordination, respond rhythmically to music, and work collaboratively to create short dance phrases. Essential equipment for the lesson includes gymnastic mats for the cooldown, marching music, a percussion instrument for keeping the beat, and colourful pom-poms to add visual flair to the cheerleading routines.

The lesson begins with a warm-up where the class teacher defines the dance zone and models various travelling steps like walking, marching, or skipping. Pupils then practice copying beats with different body movements, including stamping, clapping, and hopping. The main part of the lesson involves revisiting cheerleading arm positions from the previous session, such as the High V and Low V, and introducing new ones like the Overhead Clasp and Punch. Pupils are encouraged to use these moves to create their own dance phrases with partners, culminating in a performance where they can receive and give constructive feedback. The session ends with a cooldown activity that includes repeating the beat activity from the warm-up and stretches on gymnastic mats, fostering a calm and reflective atmosphere after the high-energy dance practice.