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

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can plan for and participate in an opening ceremony for a mini Olympic event.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: fluent and controlled movement adds value to the aesthetic performance of a set choreographed dance.
      2. Think: using choreography and organising skills to produce a dance adds to the overall aesthetic of the ceremony.
      3. Feel: involvement in a collective celebration can help manage multiple emotions such as excitement, anxiety and joy.
      4. Connect: respecting and recognising the efforts of all participants, including opponents, makes everyone feel valued.

      Keywords

      • Ceremony - a formal event celebrating the start of an event, including rituals and traditions to mark the occasion

      • Parade - the procession where athletes march together, showcasing their team spirit and enthusiasm for the event

      • Celebration - the festive atmosphere and activities that mark the beginning of an event, focusing on enjoyment and fun

      Common misconception

      A belief that our identity is fixed and permanent.

      Who we are and how that is expressed can be changed, and is likely to shift throughout our life. We can communicate who we are through our expression, how we dress, how we speak and by taking part in activities that are important to us.

      Teacher tip

      This lesson fits beautifully with the dance unit.

      Equipment

      music; props (various sporting equipment for the dance); team flags (optional); 1 mat per team as their ‘base’ and audience seat

      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.
      How is identity understood?

      fixed
      not important
      Correct answer: changes

      Q2.
      What is a motif?

      Correct answer: a repeatable pattern
      a dance
      a stimulus

      Q3.
      What does being reliable mean?

      forgetful
      Correct answer: dependable
      pretending

      Q4.
      What can being part of a team build?

      Correct answer: belonging
      anger
      resentment

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What type of action is used in a parade?

      Correct answer: marching
      jumping
      turning

      Q2.
      What pathway do athletes usually follow at an opening ceremony?

      Correct answer: circular
      linear
      random

      Q3.
      Where is the audience located at an opening ceremony?

      in the centre
      along one side
      Correct answer: around the outside

      Q4.
      How can we show our feelings?

      you can't
      Correct answer: facial expressions
      your clothing

      To help you plan your 8 physical education lesson on: Mini Olympic opening ceremony, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...