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      Dance: can you perform a sequence of actions in canon and unison?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can perform a sequence with a partner using canon and unison.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: performing a sequence in canon and unison requires accurate timing and control.
      2. Think: focusing on performing in canon and unison requires concentration to ensure we move in time.
      3. Feel: enjoying creating sequences and striving to improves them requires self-discipline.
      4. Connect: linking movements to the music or person on the screen helps the performance feel coordinated.

      Keywords

      • Canon - performing the same movement one after the other in a pair

      • Unison - performing the same movement at exactly the same time as our partner

      • Control - being purposeful; moving every body part with thought, precision and balance

      Common misconception

      Pupils might think canon means doing different actions.

      Canon involves doing the same actions but starting at different times to the other person/people.

      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).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What does it mean if you mirror a partner's action?

      Correct answer: reflect their action
      perform different actions
      use different timing

      Q2.
      What is a sequence?

      drive to perform
      performing with partner
      Correct answer: series of movements

      Q3.
      Who could you work with if you didn't have anyone to work with at home?

      no one
      Correct answer: person on screen
      wait until later

      Q4.
      'Being purposeful, moving every body part with thought, precision and balance' is the definition of what word?

      Correct answer: control
      self-discipline
      sequence

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is it called when you perform the same movement at exactly the same time as your partner?

      canon
      Correct answer: unison
      mirroring

      Q2.
      How can you ensure you are in unison with the person on the screen?

      listen to music
      Correct answer: concentrate on them
      move quickly

      Q3.
      What is it called when you perform the same movement one after the other of your partner?

      Correct answer: canon
      unison
      control

      Q4.
      How would you and your partner feel if you get the timing right with your canon moves?

      disjointed
      Correct answer: coordinated
      unconnected

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Dance: can you perform a sequence of actions in canon and unison?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...