Space: proximity
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can change the size of the space between performers to communicate different moods.
Key learning points
- Move: performing mirrored actions within different proximities to others requires control, balance and accurate timings.
- Move: demonstrating mood requires the space between performers using control and accuracy.
- Think: problem solving skills enable us to choreograph ideas that communicate the desired mood.
- Feel: treating others with respect requires taking responsibility.
- Connect: mirroring requires both pupils to collaborate effectively to achieve a unified effect.
Keywords
Proximity - how near or far the performers are positioned
Size: - the scale of an action or space used
Mirroring - reflecting the action of another
Common misconception
Being close together always demonstrates frienship, kindness and cooperation.
Being close suggests a cooperative connection between performers if the dynamic is smooth, calm and relaxed, however if the dynamic was strong, forceful and fast, the audience are likely to interpret their actions as demonstrating tension or anger.
Teacher tip
Many metaphors used to describe mood include a spatial element, e.g. 'down in the dumps' (level), 'turn your back on someone' (formation) or 'keep your distance' (size). These can be helpful to make the connection between mood and action.
Equipment
additional materials: suggested music
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What physical skill enables performers to improve accuracy?
Q2.Which levels are often used in dance?
Q3.What does working safely require us to be?
Q4.How do we demonstrate collaboration?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is the space between performers known as?
Q2.How can ‘isolation’ be demonstrated in dance?
Q3.What does watching work attentively demonstrate?
Q4.What word describes working together cooperatively?
To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Space: proximity, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 physical education lesson on: Space: proximity, 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 2 physical education lessons from the Dance: the power of unity unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.