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      Actions: unity and cohesion

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can contribute ideas and adapt actions to demonstrate unity and cohesion.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: accuracy when performing requires control, coordination, balance and stamina.
      2. Think: choreographing dances to communicate unity and cohesion requires careful planning and problem solving.
      3. Feel: making contact and sharing space requires all performers to be responsible.
      4. Connect: rehearsing to improve involves collaboration from all performers.

      Keywords

      • Unity - working in harmony, as one

      • Unison - performing the same action, at the same time

      • Focus - where a performer is looking

      Common misconception

      When making contact you always use your hands

      Making contact can involve different body parts, e.g. foot to foot, elbow to shoulder, back to back. Using more unusual connections can make a dance appear more interesting to the audience.

      Teacher tip

      Arranging pupils so they can see one another can help them to perform unison actions accurately.

      Equipment

      additional materials: 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 name of the relationship that involves touch?

      connective work
      Correct answer: contact work
      linking actions

      Q2.
      What is another word for ‘respond’?

      connect
      repeat
      Correct answer: react

      Q3.
      What pathway would a swinging action follow?

      Correct answer: curved
      linear
      zigzag

      Q4.
      Who should we take responsibility for when we are performing?

      only yourself
      only others
      Correct answer: yourself and others

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What word describes performing the same action, at the same time?

      unity
      Correct answer: unison
      universal

      Q2.
      In order to remain safe, how should performers work when collaborating?

      Correct answer: responsibility
      energetically
      slowly

      Q3.
      Which of the following is an expressive skill?

      stamina
      balance
      Correct answer: focus

      Q4.
      What process is continually used in choreography?

      Correct answer: problem solving
      rehearsal
      discussion

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