Dance 3 - Lesson 3

The third lesson in the Year 5 Dance 3 series encourages students to explore and create dance movements that embody the concepts of 'under and over' as well as 'high and low', adding depth and versatility to their dance sequences. The learning objectives are clearly defined: pupils should be able to choreograph a sequence that incorporates contact between participants, form a trusting relationship within their group, and use at least one lift. The success of the lesson is measured by these criteria. Key vocabulary such as 'contact', 'transitions', and 'balancing' are introduced, and resources required include mats and music that mimics the sound of a flowing river. The warm-up session is interactive, with pupils taking turns to lead the group in various exercises, ensuring different body parts are prepared for the dance activities ahead.

In the main section of the lesson, lasting 30 minutes, students work in pairs or trios to devise five distinct positions or movements that will be linked through transitions. They are encouraged to be creative, incorporating levels and contact, and to think about how their movements can flow like water in a river. The challenge is to create a seamless sequence of movements that transition smoothly from one to the next, with the possibility of adding complexity through techniques such as cannon. The lesson concludes with a performance where groups present their sequences to each other, followed by constructive feedback. A calming cool-down brings the lesson to a gentle close, with pupils visualising a journey along a river, from the mountains to the sea, while lying down and listening to the sound of water, gradually returning to a state of restfulness ready to re-engage with their day.