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

      Dance: can you use a motif to explore actions, space and dynamics?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use actions, space and dynamics to explore a motif.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: accuracy and control are essential in order to perform using a range of actions, dynamics and space.
      2. Think: knowing how to adapt the actions, space and dynamics in a set motif requires evaluation.
      3. Feel: creating a range of actions while exploring space and dynamics requires self-motivation.
      4. Connect: relating the actions, space and dynamics to the music or theme makes the performance meaningful.

      Keywords

      • Actions - the movements we perform

      • Dynamics - the speed and force of an action

      • Motif - a recurring pattern

      Common misconception

      Once a motif is created it has to stay the same and can't be adapted.

      You can always adapt a motif by changing the actions, space or dynamics.

      Equipment

      Music of choice

      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

      Loading...

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is a jump an example of?

      Correct answer: an action
      a song
      a movement phrase

      Q2.
      What is a movement phrase?

      whole song sequence
      Correct answer: short movement sequence
      one movement

      Q3.
      Which is an example of space you may be working in for today's lesson?

      a chair
      Correct answer: your garden
      a bed

      Q4.
      Which is not an example of a travel movement?

      leap
      skip
      Correct answer: one-legged balance

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which one is an example of an action?

      fast
      Correct answer: turn
      high

      Q2.
      How could you vary the space you explore?

      wave faster
      Correct answer: change levels
      jump more

      Q3.
      What will change in an action if you add more energy to a movement phrase?

      Correct answer: the dynamics
      the gesture
      the space

      Q4.
      What is a motif?

      an action
      the space
      Correct answer: a recurring pattern

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Dance: can you use a motif to explore actions, space and dynamics?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...