Dance 3 - Lesson 3

In Year 4's Dance 3 - Lesson 3, students delve into the vibrant world of rock 'n' roll, learning to choreograph a duet that captures the essence of this energetic dance style. The learning objectives are clear: pupils must work cohesively with a partner, maintain rhythm with the music, and execute movements emblematic of rock 'n' roll. The success of the lesson hinges on these criteria, along with the key vocabulary that includes terms such as 'co-ordinate', 'counts of 8', 'opposite', 'lifts', and 'turns'. To facilitate the lesson, the teacher will need to select some rock 'n' roll music. The lesson starts with a dynamic warm-up where students take turns leading exercises in groups of five, focusing on warming up different body parts. This is followed by an energetic activity that has them running to numbered walls on the teacher's call, culminating in gathering together to focus on the lesson's objectives.

During the main part of the lesson, which lasts 30 minutes, students are reminded that they are creating a rock 'n' roll dance duet. After watching a video clip for inspiration, they are tasked with observing and discussing the movements, energy, and timing. The class teacher then guides them through a routine, which includes flicking movements, step and digs, and a unique slide-under manoeuvre. Partners work together to perfect these moves, with the teacher's demonstrations aiding their learning. Once they've mastered the given choreography, each pair is challenged to invent an additional 32 counts to complete their routine, drawing on elements such as lifts and turns. Advanced students are encouraged to incorporate more complex movements. The session concludes with a performance segment, where students take turns being the audience and performers, providing feedback on each other's dances. The cool-down involves a mix of instructed movements around the room, followed by a calming exercise of deep breathing and arm movements to bring the energy down and wrap up the lesson.