New
New
Year 4

Using props in dance: Wales

I can incorporate props into my work.

New
New
Year 4

Using props in dance: Wales

I can incorporate props into my work.

These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

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These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: performing actions using props, such as handkerchiefs, adds flow and helps to exaggerate the arm actions.
  2. Think: trying a range of ideas for using a prop before selecting the best option involves decision making.
  3. Feel: creating actions with props requires resilience to keep trying hard so that the prop enhances the performance.
  4. Connect: cooperation ensures precise timing, proper use of props and correct formation during a performance.

Keywords

  • Prop - an object incorporated into a performance

  • Handkerchief - a square of material

  • Formation - how performers are arranged

Common misconception

Pupils often assume that using props like handkerchiefs or scarves simply means waving them in the air.

If using props such as handkerchiefs or ribbons in dance these can exaggerate the actions and add flow to the action. Whereas props such as sticks or swords can also add sound. Props often help to communicate the theme or origin of a dance too.


To help you plan your year 4 physical education lesson on: Using props in dance: Wales, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Paper napkins make for a safe and 'easy to access' alternative to handkerchiefs. The children can also decorate them to make them colourful and easily identifiable.
Teacher tip

Equipment

Suggested music, 30+ pieces of square material (e.g. handkerchiefs)

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.
Which of the following is a formation?

Correct answer: line
leg
level

Q2.
What is a ‘formation’?

Correct answer: arrangement
direction
a bend

Q3.
What describes musicality?

Correct answer: expressive through music
good listening
sings well

Q4.
What does ‘sharing ideas’ demonstrate?

speed
Correct answer: cooperation
agility

Assessment exit quiz

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4 Questions

Q1.
What is a prop?

a problem
an action
Correct answer: an object

Q2.
What do props add to a dance performance?

Correct answer: colour, flow, emphasis
speed, agility, balance
rests, breaks, pauses

Q3.
What skill would be used if you tried hard to find the most effective way for using a prop, even if it was difficult?

annoyance
Correct answer: resilience
frustration

Q4.
Which skill helps with keeping time, the safe use of props and maintaining formations?

Correct answer: cooperation
strength
mirroring

Additional material

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