This lesson pushed me out of my comfort zone as I was interacting with people whom I hadn’t before. For some children this may also be the case but I can see that it would build their confidence as throughout the lesson everyone became more comfortable with one another. I was put in the pupils’ shoes which allowed me to be on the receiving end of the teaching of dance and see how much impact it can have on the child. I discovered that dance builds motivation, confidence and relationships amongst the children. I have gained valuable experience for teaching on my placement and beyond.

We discussed that dance can be used to teach other subjects such as numeracy, literacy and sciences. These could potentially be quite ‘boring’ subjects but dance makes them fun and the children are more likely to take in the information because their concentration levels are higher than they would be if they were bored. Giving the children specific dance moves for phrases, grammar/punctuation or sums may enable them to remember helpful information. Even in the classroom, if the dance move if memorable enough then they will remember the sum to do or the punctuation to use.

Another good concept that I think I will take forward as a teacher is the idea of getting the children to find different ways to move around the hall. It allows children to build their team working skills whilst they are brainstorming to think of crazy ways to move around. The children will also become more confident as they share their ideas with others. This allows the quieter children the courage to share their ideas with the class which, in turn, builds their confidence in their own ideas and their work during other subjects.

When the groups came together and had to choose their favourite move to show the class, I could see how this could be challenging for children as most children would want to use their own move. They would have to debate who’s move to use and overcome the problem. Problem solving is a valuable skill that can be used by the children in many aspects. This gives the children a chance to embrace other people’s ideas.

I have learned that dance isn’t just for the children’s fitness but can be used as a way for them to learn and/or express themselves. I look forward to using these ideas and concepts during my teaching.