Dance 3 - Lesson 4

In the fourth lesson of a Year 6 dance series, pupils are tasked with an interstellar challenge: to travel and rotate through space while embodying the characteristics of different planets. The learning objectives set a clear path for the students to choreograph a dance piece in groups, using a variety of dynamics to represent the distinct qualities of gas and rocky planets. The success criteria ensure that pupils can apply a range of levels, tempos, and contact work in their performances, demonstrating their understanding and creativity. Key vocabulary such as 'gas', 'rocky', 'unison', 'canon', 'tempo', 'levels', 'contact work', and 'dynamics' are introduced to enrich their dance lexicon. To support the students in their cosmic journey, background information on the planets is provided as a resource.

The lesson begins with a warm-up where pupils navigate the space, changing directions and responding to adverbs called out by the teacher, which influence their improvised movements. The main activity involves sorting fact file cards of planets into gas and rocky categories, followed by a discussion to brainstorm descriptive words for movements associated with these celestial bodies. Students are then divided into groups and assigned a planet, which will guide the style of dance they choreograph. A checklist of dance techniques aids them in this creative process. The lesson culminates in a performance where the arrangement of the groups on stage reflects the concept of orbiting, with the teacher facilitating the spatial setup and music selection. A cool-down session concludes the class, allowing pupils to unwind and reflect on their interplanetary exploration.