Marching on the Spot

Learning Outcomes

Walking to a changing rhythm

Walking on the spot

Stopping on the beat

Relationships with others (cooperation and leadership)

Description Of Activity

• Children spread out safely in a hard court or grass area.
• Teacher/coach stands where all children can see and hear the beat.
•  
• Children practise the following rhythm-based movements:
• March & Stop
• Teacher beats a set number of beats.
• Children march on the spot, starting and stopping exactly on the beat.
• Example:
  1-2-3-4-5-6 march (L, R, L, R, L, R) Stop
• Repeat several times.
• Walk and March
• Intermix walking on the spot with moving forward.
• Respond to the beat for start and stop.
• Change Direction
• Continue marching or walking while changing direction each time the beat pattern changes.
• Partner Leader
• Work in pairs.
• One partner leads the rhythm and movement.
• Change leader when walking on the spot.
• Clap Your Own Rhythm
• Children clap their own rhythm while walking or marching.
• Lift & Clap
• Lift one knee and clap underneath.
• Alternate legs.
• Lift & Under / Over
• Clap under the bent knee.
• Clap over the bent knee.
• Knee Slap Walk
• Walk while gently slapping hands on top of knees.
• Lift & Click
• Lift one knee and click fingers beside it.
• Teacher calls: Lift and click left / Lift and click right.
• Combination Moves
• Combine actions, e.g.:
• Clap under left knee
• Clap over right knee
• Teaching Points / What to Look For
• Children moving in time with the beat
• Clear start and stop control
• Awareness of space and others
• Confidence and enjoyment
• Cool Down / Closure
• Gentle walking and stretching
• Review key skills: rhythm, coordination, control
• Ask reflection questions:
• Was it easier to move fast or slow?
• Which rhythm did you enjoy most?

Variations

In pairs or small groups, children create their own rhythms.

Groups march and move together to their chosen beat.

Equipment/Material Required

Rhythm instrument(s) (drum, tambourine, clappers, sticks)