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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create actions that communicate meaning through symbolism.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: performing actions that communicate a mood, idea or concept requires control and precision.
      2. Think: identifying how actions can communicate ideas requires decision making.
      3. Feel: creating and performing actions that accurately communicate an idea requires self-motivation to keep trying.
      4. Connect: valuing the contribution(s) of others requires respect.

      Keywords

      • Visual metaphor - the representation of a person, place, thing or idea through an image

      • Symbol - a sign, shape or object that represents something else

      • Manipulate - to move or adjust

      Common misconception

      Pupils think that to communicate an idea we have to show a picture.

      We can communicate ideas through our dance actions.

      Teacher tip

      When pupils position themselves behind their partner, they are likely to make themselves smaller. This isn't necessary, they simply need to be outside their partner's visual range.

      Equipment

      additional materials: 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 word completes the title of the Banksy painting ‘Girl with a …’?

      Correct answer: Balloon
      Ball
      Heart

      Q2.
      What is the term for outstretching a part of the body?

      repetition
      focus
      Correct answer: extension

      Q3.
      What does identifying how best to communicate your ideas involve?

      match making
      Correct answer: decision making
      story making

      Q4.
      What would be used to communicate the aesthetics of a floating balloon?

      rhythm
      Correct answer: dynamics
      relationships

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How can we communicate an idea?

      Correct answer: through dance actions
      by being strong
      by being fast

      Q2.
      What would valuing our partner's ideas and collaborating successfully require?

      Correct answer: respect
      strength
      coordination

      Q3.
      What do we mean by a sign, shape or object that represents something else?

      photo
      Correct answer: symbol
      square

      Q4.
      What word describes how we explain the meaning of a performance or a painting?

      inspection
      interaction
      Correct answer: interpretation

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Visual metaphors, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...