KS2 · Physical education · Year 4

Using props in dance: Wales

Dance: traditional dances of the British Isles

Learn it. Recall it. Make it stick.

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Your learning goal

I can incorporate props into my work.

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Using props in dance: Wales: slides adapted from the imported teaching text; recall questions created from its keywords, learning points and common mistakes. Self-check practice, with no automatic grading or XP. Answers stay on this page and are cleared when you leave.

What you’ll learn

I can incorporate props into my work.

Key learning points

Move: performing actions using props, such as handkerchiefs, adds flow and helps to exaggerate the arm actions.
Think: trying a range of ideas for using a prop before selecting the best option involves decision making.
Feel: creating actions with props requires resilience to keep trying hard so that the prop enhances the performance.
Connect: cooperation ensures precise timing, proper use of props and correct formation during a performance.

Words to know

prop: an object incorporated into a performance
handkerchief: a square of material
formation: how performers are arranged

Common mistakes

Pupils often assume that using props like handkerchiefs or scarves simply means waving them in the air.

If using props such as handkerchiefs or ribbons in dance these can exaggerate the actions and add flow to the action. Whereas props such as sticks or swords can also add sound. Props often help to communicate the theme or origin of a dance too.

For parents, carers and teachers

Paper napkins make for a safe and 'easy to access' alternative to handkerchiefs. The children can also decorate them to make them colourful and easily identifiable.