Dance 3 - Lesson 6

In Year 6 Dance lesson 6, students are set to culminate their learning with a performance of a choreographed group dance centred around the theme of space. The lesson's learning objectives are clear: to perform the dance confidently in front of an audience and to collaborate effectively, ensuring precise timing and spacing. Key vocabulary for this session includes terms like 'In the round', pace, transitions, timing, and performance qualities, which are essential for a polished presentation. The equipment required is minimal, with just masking tape to mark positions and music selected by the teacher to set the rhythm and mood for the dance.

The lesson is structured into three segments, beginning with a 10-minute warm-up. Pupils find their own space and follow the teacher's lead in warming up various parts of their bodies, from marching in place to isolating movements of the rib cage and hips. The teacher uses this time to reinforce performance tips and build the pupils' confidence. The main activity lasts 30 minutes, providing a final rehearsal and the performance itself, which is done 'in the round' with the audience encircling the dancers. Following the performance, there's an opportunity for a Q&A session where pupils can discuss their creative process and the techniques they employed. The lesson concludes with a 10-minute cool down, offering a reflective period for students to evaluate their experiences, discuss challenges, and recognise new skills learned throughout the unit.