New
New
Year 9

A time and a place: formations and transitions

I can use transitions to effectively link between different formations.

New
New
Year 9

A time and a place: formations and transitions

I can use transitions to effectively link between different formations.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: successful transitions and formations include judging patterns, orders, spacing and dynamics.
  2. Move: combining two different elements requires competency in both.
  3. Think: making choreographic decisions involves evaluating possible choices.
  4. Feel: sharing opinions and ideas honestly demonstrates integrity.
  5. Connect: accurate placement in formations requires cooperation from everyone involved.

Keywords

  • Formations - the arrangement or pattern of a group

  • Transitions - the process of changing, linking, connecting

  • Unity - working as one

Common misconception

When performing in a group formation, this should always be in unison.

Unison can be highly effective in clear formations as this also communicates unity and power, but other choreographic relationships such as canon, mirroring or contact work also add interest and are visually exciting to watch.


To help you plan your year 9 physical education lesson on: A time and a place: formations and transitions, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Frequent changes of formation add interest to a dance. These can be simple such as separating from one line to two and then back again.
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.
In dance, how do we describe communicating the dance idea?
Correct answer: projecting
transmitting
imparting
Q2.
What is ‘question and answer’ in dance?
variety of speed
using different levels
Correct answer: a choreographic relationship
Q3.
In dance, what is meant by ‘appreciation’?
applauding
Correct answer: evaluating
observing
Q4.
What might a performer do to embellish an action?
make it simpler
Correct answer: add ornamentation
repeat an action

Assessment exit quiz

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4 Questions

Q1.
Which of the following is not a formation?
circle
line
Correct answer: transition
Q2.
What is the primary function of a transition?
Correct answer: linking
change of level
travelling
Q3.
What does the accurate placement within formations require?
alignment
Correct answer: cooperation
extension
Q4.
What does ‘integrity’ require?
indecision
directness
Correct answer: honesty

Additional material

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