Choose exam board for KS4 Computer Science (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 English
Choose exam board for KS4 French
Choose exam board for KS4 Geography
Choose exam board for KS4 German
Choose exam board for KS4 History
Choose tier for KS4 Maths
Choose exam board for KS4 Music
Choose exam board for KS4 Physical education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Religious education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Spanish

      Applying a range of motifs and structuring a dance

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use the images in a painting as a stimulus to actions, shapes and pathways.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: applying angular shapes to our movements requires precision and creates a different aesthetic.
      2. Move: performing actions that combine angular shapes and pathways brings the stimulus to life.
      3. Think: each step of creating, developing and arranging motifs involves decision making.
      4. Feel: rehearsing changes to a motif requires resilience to continue to apply ourselves fully.
      5. Connect: ensuring everyone has enough space to perform their actions fully demonstrates respect.

      Keywords

      • Angular - having angles or sharp corners

      • Stimuli - something that evokes ideas

      • Pathway - the course of a journey

      Common misconception

      A dance only has one motif.

      Most dances will contain several motifs, these can be as short and simple as a gesture or more complex sequences. If they are performed more than once in a dance, then they are a motif.

      Teacher tip

      Have whiteboards and pens available for pupils to anotate their dances in some way to aid their recall. Alternatively supply groups with a tablet to film their work.

      Equipment

      Suggested music and art.

      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.
      Which of the following would enable a motif to be varied?

      Correct answer: change the direction
      change the costume
      change the music

      Q2.
      When collaborating, who decides how a motif is changed?

      Correct answer: the group
      the audience
      the teacher

      Q3.
      What is a stimulus used for?

      to increase effort
      Correct answer: to generate ideas
      to calm performers

      Q4.
      What word describes the study of beauty in the arts?

      elegance
      grace
      Correct answer: aesthetics

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What does making changes to a motif require?

      Correct answer: rehearsal
      relaxation
      conversation

      Q2.
      What would ensuring the performers have enough space demonstrate?

      resilience
      Correct answer: respect
      timing

      Q3.
      What are the three decision making steps involved in choreography?

      Correct answer: creating, developing, arranging
      thinking, feeling, imagining
      travelling, jumping, turning

      Q4.
      Which of the following would not vary a motif?

      changing the level
      changing the speed
      Correct answer: changing nothing

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Applying a range of motifs and structuring a dance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...