Dance 2 - Lesson 6

In Year 6 Dance Lesson 6, students embark on an energetic journey to explore and perform a dance routine inspired by the Olympic Games. The lesson's learning objectives are centered on performing with coordination, linking a range of actions, and combining movement phrases within a group. To achieve these goals, the lesson incorporates key vocabulary such as 'phrase', 'gesture', 'stance', 'unison', 'canon', and terms related to Olympic events like 'pentathlon', 'heptathlon', 'stadion', and 'discus'. The equipment needed includes gymnastic mats for the cool-down session and music, with the suggestion of 'Chariots of Fire' by Vangelis to set an inspirational tone. The warm-up consists of a creative alphabet exercise where pupils travel around the space and form shapes of different letters upon command, with variations including making numbers and creating freeze-frames of sports gestures.

The main part of the lesson is a 30-minute session where students rehearse and perform a dance routine that captures the essence of Olympic sports. They engage in 'Olympic Charades', acting out various sports events, and work on a choreographed routine that includes the lighting of the Olympic Torch and a Torch Relay. The class is divided into groups to perform their dance phrases, with opportunities for leadership as some students demonstrate sports or lead movements. The lesson culminates in a filmed performance, allowing students to evaluate their work and appreciate the efforts of their peers. The cool-down phase includes stretching and breathing exercises on gymnastic mats, providing a relaxing end to the dynamic lesson. Leadership roles are also present in this segment, with students being given the chance to lead stretches and facilitate the transition back to class.