Traditional Greek dance
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create a simple traditional Greek dancing motif and use size and formations in my work.
Key learning points
- Move: performing a traditional Greek motif requires us to perform actions in a set order using size and formation.
- Move: performing actions in unison while in contact with others needs careful timing and control.
- Think: arranging actions in order needs us to think about how they will connect.
- Feel: trying a range of ideas before choosing the best involves resilience.
- Connect: demonstrating trust needs us to work together to create our motifs and appreciate the effort of others.
Keywords
Size - how big or small a shape or action is
Formation - how dancers are arranged, e.g. line, circle, block
Contact - physical connection with another performer
Common misconception
Moves have to be performed in a specifc order to be effective.
After learning a few moves, we can ask the pupils which to perform and how many. This enables them to develop their choreographic skills of selecting and sequencing actions effectively.
Teacher tip
When performing side to side actions in a circle, many pupils facing the teacher will be likely to use mirroring and will benefit from being regularly prompted on which way to travel.
Equipment
Suggested music
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.In line dancing, what part of the body is used the most?
Q2.If we perform actions at the same time, what does this mean we are showing?
Q3.When dancers turn 90°, what have they changed?
Q4.What are patterns of movements called?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of these is a traditional Greek dance formation?
Q2.What helps us move together when performing traditional Greek dance?
Q3.What is one way we can change an action in dance?
Q4.What should you do before selecting an action?
To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Traditional Greek dance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 2 physical education lesson on: Traditional Greek dance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 1 physical education lessons from the Dance: my world, how we dance unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.