The first dance session is inspired by moves from Senegal and The Gambia.
1. African dance
A celebration dance from the Wollof tribe of Senegal and The Gambia.
Resources
Download audio
Download the audio for this dance session as an mp3 file.
Teacher's Notes
Guidance on using the dance sessions in this unit with your group (pdf)
Lesson Summary
Dancing in shape - learning the dance, step by step
This includes learning the stance, and then moving in shape - walking and jumping forward and back. Each travelling section is separated with a lively bounce and clap on the spot; knees bending up and down in time with the music.
Dance your own celebration dance
Free, lively movement responding to the music and using ideas from the programme.
Note on performance
If you are planning to perform the dance - in assembly or on a similar occasion you could arrange the children in groups. The dance works in small circles, or in travelling lines, which could weave between each other. Make sure the children are confident with the movement before you ask them to work in groups, and when they do, encourage good spacing so they don’t bump into each other when they move backwards.
More from this series
2. Greek dance. audio
Pupils explore simple steps from traditional Greek dances - in particular the Greek circle dance called the Khastorias.
3. Irish dance. audio
Includes simple dance steps inspired by traditional Irish dance - straight posture with arms by the side.
4. Indian dance. audio
The final session focuses on dance steps from India - in particular from the northern state of Rajasthan.
