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Lesson 1 of 12
  • Year 6

Actions: the domino effect

I can use canon to create a domino effect when performing actions.

Lesson 1 of 12
New
New
  • Year 6

Actions: the domino effect

I can use canon to create a domino effect when performing actions.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: performing actions using canon in response to a previous action requires control.
  2. Move: using different formations and spacing to present the connection between performers requires spatial awareness.
  3. Think: responding to another person's action quickly demonstrates rapid problem solving.
  4. Feel: accurate timing in a group requires everyone to be responsible for being aware of the actions of others.
  5. Connect: responding to actions of a partner or group requires trust and collaboration.

Keywords

  • Domino effect - a linked sequence of events

  • Respond - a reaction or reply

  • Canon - performing an action one after the other in a pair/group

Common misconception

When you perform a canon, you have to perform the same action as each other.

Whilst this is often true, the actions can vary, e.g., pupils may jump apart one at a time, yet each pupil may perform a different jump, or pupils may change shape. It is the staggered timing that is the essential element.


To help you plan your year 6 physical education lesson on: Actions: the domino effect, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

It may help to show the pupils a video of dominoes falling into each other and creating a ripple effect.
Teacher tip

Equipment

additional materials: suggested music

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - physical activity

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Prior knowledge starter quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
What word describes the process of creating a dance?

compose
Correct answer: choreograph
arrange

Q2.
What do dynamics describe?

where we move
when we move
Correct answer: how we move

Q3.
What skill is required to respond to the actions of another performer safely?

observation
Correct answer: trust
timing

Q4.
What word describes performing the same action at different times, e.g. a Mexican Wave?

Correct answer: canon
create
choreograph

Assessment exit quiz

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4 Questions

Q1.
What choreographic relationship demonstrates a ‘domino effect’?

Correct answer: canon
mirroring
contrast

Q2.
Which skill is important for creating a ‘domino effect’ in dance?

strength
speed
Correct answer: collaboration

Q3.
What type of action do you need to create to perform a response in canon?

the same action
Correct answer: contrasting action
always freeze still

Q4.
Which of the following does not help to create a ‘unified’ effect when dancing?

Correct answer: separating
using contact work
being close together