This is a 3 part lesson exploring ways to build tension and tell stories through dance. The lesson is focused on the work of Jerome Robbins “West Side Story” Lesson 1: Learn some stylised actions (videos provided for the non-specialist). Students explore the impact of the infamous walks and clicks and choreograph their own short sequences using this idea. Lesson 2: Focused more on the stylised actions and using them to develop the work from the previous lesson in their groups Lesson 3: Focus on expressive skills and preparing for performance of their work. Students will perform and then watch an excerpt from the musical to reflect on demonstrating critical thinking and appreciation of Jerome Robbins choreography. There are teacher guidance notes throughout, feel free to adapt and change slides according to your students needs.

Topic: Modern Dance (chance choreography) Age: year 9 This is a sequence of 8 lessons designed for blended learning (online / in person). It has been designed to incorporate motifs from Flux and Breathe in order to prepare your potential GCSE students. It focuses on the basics of choreography with a strong emphasis on GCSE dance language. Lesson 1: History of Dance (theory lesson to give context) Lesson 2/3/4: Learning motifs from the two set phrases with video instruction for your online learners. L5 :Using Chance spinners to manipulate action, space and dynamics of the set phrases in duets (could also be a solo if you are distancing) L6- 8: Using Chance spinners to manipulate relationships in larger groups (using the solos/ duets already created). Structuring all the sections you now have (in each group you will have a min of 2 duets, a quartet and the original set phrases)

NOTES FOR TEACHERS The development of American Jazz dance from the 1930s to 1975 was influenced by a combination of social, economic, and historical events – this is context. Key figures like Gene Kelly, Jerome Robbins, Bob Fosse, and others played significant roles in shaping this art form and AQA want you to be able to put this into context when writing your essays. Below are some of the key events and contributors that impacted American Jazz dance during this period. With your students discuss these events. Assess prior knowledge and the impact or effect the time we live in has on the art we create and therefore the development of a style like American Jazz Dance. Included in this resource. This resource provides social, historical and cultural context for the USA from1900 – 1975. The examiners reports refer to the importance of “context where relevant” being a key factor for missing marks in the higher bands. Contents Notes for teachers 22 pages of contextual information, images, and discussion points for your students. A suggested task to use this information. You are free to use this information however you feel appropriate. Essay structure and examples of how to include this contextual information.

With the run up to the Olympics this was a a really fun session. It is for a double period and the resources I have added are based specificaly around Australia. This could easily be adapted to also suit KS2. I have provided the task briefs that I used but again these could be adapted to suit your students. Have fun, we did and we also created some excellent work for display!