New
New
Year 8

Capoeira: the basic movement language

I can perform three basic Capoeira actions.

New
New
Year 8

Capoeira: the basic movement language

I can perform three basic Capoeira actions.

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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: projecting to a partner, when mirroring actions, requires an established connection between the performers.
  2. Move: responding to the actions of a partner requires anticipation of their next movement.
  3. Think: improvisation requires concentrating on and responding to the frequent changes.
  4. Feel: maintaining non-contact requires control and self-discipline.
  5. Connect: appreciating the roots of this movement style involves empathy.

Keywords

  • Ginga - a relaxed sidestep that is fundamental to Capoeira

  • Non-contact - without any physical connection

  • Evade - to dodge or avoid

Common misconception

Capoeira is based on fighting.

Capoeira is based on challenging your opponent, but in a game-like scenario. This is why performers are called 'players'.


To help you plan your year 8 physical education lesson on: Capoeira: the basic movement language, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Access video clips to show to pupils who may have little prior experience of Capoeira.
Teacher tip

Equipment

Suggested music.

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

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4 Questions

Q1.
What word describes performing the same action at the same time as a partner?
Correct answer: unison
canon
unified
Q2.
What is the process of composing a dance called?
cartography
Correct answer: choreography
calligraphy
Q3.
Which of the following is not a dance style?
jazz
hip hop
Correct answer: judo
Q4.
What is it called when you highlight a move to make it stand out?
entry
Correct answer: emphasis
performing

Assessment exit quiz

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4 Questions

Q1.
Approximately when did Capoeira originate?
20th century
10th century
Correct answer: 16th century
Q2.
How is Capoeira usually ‘played’?
as a solo
Correct answer: as a duet
as a group
Q3.
What is the name of the side step in Capoeira?
Correct answer: ginga
bênção
negativa laterale
Q4.
What type of action is a negativa laterale?
attacking
fighting
Correct answer: evading

Additional material

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