Try dancing in PE with this fun and creative lesson plan that helps children get active by working together to create a unique animal-inspired dance. Each child is responsible for designing their own moves within the routine.
This dancing PE lesson plan is based on the Active Inspiration Play Makers approach, created by Virgin Active and the University of Bedfordshire.
It aims to explore new methods of teaching PE and re-establish the subject as an integral part of primary education. Play Makers draws from Dr Vicky Goodyear’s initial work on cooperative learning.
Example animal dance
Decide on a theme for the dance the children will be designing in the lesson. You can choose this by working with the children or decide it in advance.
Here’s an example theme for an animal dance. Every move is inspired by the daily routine of a troop of chimpanzees.
Wakey wakey
Imagine that you are a chimpanzee sleeping in your nest high in the jungle tree tops. Together make up a dance move showing the chimpanzee waking up and climbing down to start the day.
Breakfast time
Imagine you are a chimpanzee looking for breakfast. Make up a dance move showing the chimpanzee gathering and eating its food.
Play time
Imagine you are a chimpanzee ready to play. Make up a dance move showing chimpanzees playing in the trees.
