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      Formations and contrast: prepositions

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use prepositions to arrange my position when working with others.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: moving around others requires us to be precise in our actions.
      2. Move: using a range of formations to create different actions requires precision and control.
      3. Think: responding to the shapes and actions of others involves ongoing decision making.
      4. Feel: taking turns requires patience and self-discipline.
      5. Connect: a performance can communicate different ideas to different people in the audience.

      Keywords

      • Formation - the position the performers are placed in

      • Contrast - distinctly different

      • Preposition - a word that indicates where something is relative to something else

      Common misconception

      Pupils think that prepositions are only used in writing.

      Prepositions describe how things are arranged relative to other people or objects, so they can be used in all subject areas.

      Teacher tip

      For pupils who are unable to use physical contact, avoid using prepositions that imply contact such as against, adjoining, upon.

      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.
      How often would you see something if it happens frequently?

      rarely
      sometimes
      Correct answer: a lot

      Q2.
      Why do we use self-discipline when performing a powerful action near others?

      Correct answer: safety
      stamina
      strength

      Q3.
      What do we mean by the force of effort applied to an action?

      space
      Correct answer: power
      relationships

      Q4.
      What do dynamics help to communicate?

      Correct answer: meaning
      timing
      partner work

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which of the following words is not a preposition?

      under
      behind
      Correct answer: balancing

      Q2.
      What does ‘taking turns’ involve?

      Correct answer: self-discipline
      imagination
      hope

      Q3.
      What is the correct name for the people who watch a performance?

      the watchers
      Correct answer: the audience
      the viewers

      Q4.
      In which subjects do we use prepositions?

      Correct answer: in all subjects
      when writing
      when dancing

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Formations and contrast: prepositions, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...