New
New
Year 8

Small group performances in canon and unison

I can perform a routine with a mix of dynamics, using unison and canon and in large groups.

New
New
Year 8

Small group performances in canon and unison

I can perform a routine with a mix of dynamics, using unison and canon and in large groups.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Move: when performing in unison, use beat counts to ensure all movements are synchronised and in time.
  2. Move: visual cues can ensure that timing is cohesive which enhances the quality of the performance.
  3. Think: performing jumps and rolls in canon can add interest to a performance.
  4. Feel: incorporating a range of dynamics into a performance builds creativity.
  5. Connect: working with others to perform in canon and unison builds trust to hit the correct timing.

Keywords

  • Unison - partners do the same moves at exactly the same time, perfectly matching each other's timing and movements

  • Canon - when performing a sequence of movements, group members do the same order of moves but at a different time

  • Dynamics - refers to the execution of movements with speed, power and fluidity to enhance the overall energy and impact of the routine

Common misconception

When performing in unison, some students may be slightly ahead or behind affecting overall synchronisation. If pupils don't move at the correct intervals in canon, the sequence looks uncoordinated.

Use a clear count-in or rhythm (e.g. counting beats out loud or clapping) and practise slowly before increasing speed.


To help you plan your year 8 physical education lesson on: Small group performances in canon and unison, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

When creating longer group sequences, pupils will need more time to choreograph their routines. You should ensure that as groups combine, they take choreography from each group so that all groups ideas are represented in the final performances.
Teacher tip

Equipment

1 mat between 2

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).

4 Questions

Q1.
How should our body be when performing a roll in order to be in control?
Correct answer: tight
relaxed
extended
Q2.
What are rolls often used for when added to sequences?
Correct answer: transition movements
high movements
add stillness
Q3.
What position do you finish in when performing a forward roll?
straddle
Correct answer: squat
seated
Q4.
What is the most important teaching point when performing a forward/backward roll safely?
land on feet
squat down
Correct answer: tuck the chin

4 Questions

Q1.
How can you gradually improve your ability to move well in unison and canon as a group?
Correct answer: practise slowly
practise faster
practise individually
Q2.
What can you use to help you perform in unison as a larger group so that your performance is synchronised?
shout names
intuition
Correct answer: beat counts
Q3.
What can we develop when successfully moving in unison and canon as part of a large group?
individuality
Correct answer: trust
explosiveness
Q4.
What can we add to our final performance by including a range of dynamics in our sequence?
consistency
cohesiveness
Correct answer: creativity