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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use facial expressions when I perform actions to communicate the meaning of a story in dance.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: actions, particularly facial expressions, can be used to communicate feelings or emotions.
      2. Move: creating rhythmic foot patterns to communicate the story needs balance and control.
      3. Think: reviewing my own work before performing involves evaluating my choices.
      4. Feel: rehearsing and then performing to an audience needs resilience.
      5. Connect: performing contrasting roles with a partner involves trust.

      Keywords

      • Facial expression - how our face communicates our feelings or emotions

      • Focus - where the dancer is looking

      • Character - a person, animal or creature from a story

      Common misconception

      Traditional dance styles are how all the people in that country dance.

      Traditional dance styles are still danced by some people in their communities on certain occasions. They will also dance other styles too and these will change depending on whether they are in a theatre, temple or at a social event.

      Teacher tip

      Many pop stars look to traditional dance styles to use in their videos and performances. These can support students' understanding of how such work can be fused into a modern cultural experience and be accessible.

      Equipment

      Suggested music

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the traditional dance style from Hawaii known as?

      Correct answer: Hula
      Salsa
      Line dancing

      Q2.
      Why do we often use gestures in a storytelling dance?

      to change levels
      to add interest
      Correct answer: to communicate meaning

      Q3.
      What does trusting someone's feedback enable us to do?

      describe our work
      Correct answer: improve our work
      finish our work

      Q4.
      What part of our body is used when performing a facial expression?

      hands
      Correct answer: face
      feet

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Where does Kathak dance come from?

      Italy
      Ireland
      Correct answer: India

      Q2.
      What part of our body is used when we focus?

      hands
      Correct answer: eyes
      feet

      Q3.
      What skill do we use if we make physical contact with our partner when dancing?

      Correct answer: trust
      empathy
      balance

      Q4.
      What word do we give to a person, animal or creature from a story?

      Correct answer: character
      building
      sky

      To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Kathak dance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...