### Putting on a Performance
**Objective:**
Students will learn how to incorporate basic stunts and cheers into a routine while focusing on presentation skills and expressive abilities to engage and captivate an audience.
**Materials Required:**
- Pom-poms for each student
- Floor mats for safety during stunts
- Music player with upbeat music
- Video examples of simple cheer routines (pre-downloaded)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Costumes (optional)
- Large mirror (if available)
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### 1. Introduction and Explanation (10 minutes)
**Teacher Dialogue:**
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we are going to become performers! Our lesson is called 'Putting on a Performance,' where we'll learn how to create amazing routines using stunts and cheers. Performing in front of others can be a lot of fun, and today we'll learn how to make it exciting and engaging!"
“Has everyone seen a cheerleading performance or a dance routine before? Today, we’ll try our hand at something similar, and you’ll get to be the stars of the show!”
“First, let’s talk about what makes a great performance. It’s not just about the moves - it’s about how you present them. We’ll focus on our expressions, timing, and how to make our audience cheer for us!"
**Show Video Examples:**
"Let’s start by watching a few short clips of cheerleading routines. Pay attention to how the performers use their faces and bodies to express themselves. Watch how everyone works together as a team. Here we go!"
[Play pre-selected video clips of cheerful, age-appropriate routines]
"Did you notice how everyone was smiling and full of energy? That’s what makes a performance special!"
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### 2. Setting Up and Starting the Activity (10 minutes)
**Teacher Instructions:**
"Now, let’s get started with our activity. Everyone, please gather round and let’s practice our cheer voices. We will start by learning a simple cheer together."
"Repeat after me: 'We’ve got the spirit, yes, we do. We’ve got the spirit, how about you?' Great job! Stand in a circle so you can see each other, and let’s try it again—with a smile and lots of enthusiasm!"
"Next, we’re going to use these pom-poms. Pom-poms add color and flair to our movements. Take a set and shake them high above your heads, then out to the sides! Make sure to keep smiling!"
"We are now going to learn two basic stunts that can add excitement to our routines. The 'Star Jump' and the 'Cheer Pyramid'."
**Safety Note:**
"It’s very important that we stay safe while doing these activities. Keep an eye on the space around you, and always use the mats provided for extra safety during stunts."
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### 3. Main Activity (20 minutes)
**Step 1: Learning the Star Jump (10 minutes)**
**Overview:** Students learn a simple jump to incorporate into their performance.
**Teacher Says:**
"Let's learn a fun move called the 'Star Jump'. Stand with your feet together, arms at your sides. On the count of three, jump into the air while spreading your arms and legs out wide like a star. Ready? 1, 2, 3—jump!"
"Great job! Remember to smile while in the air—you want to show the audience that you’re having a great time!"
**Step 2: Creating the Cheer Pyramid (10 minutes)**
**Overview:** Students work together to form a simple human pyramid safely.
**Teacher Says:**
"Now, for our second stunt, let’s form a 'Cheer Pyramid'. It’s important we work together as a team. We’ll need a strong base, then add layers. Our base will have three students on the mats, kneeling, shoulder to shoulder."
"Alright, the second layer can be two students who will gently place their hands on the backs of the first level, then kneel. Remember, safety first, so if at any point you’re uncomfortable, let me know immediately."
"And, at the top, we’ll have our star jumper who will simply stand and give us a big wave, with pom-poms up high!"
"Teamwork is key to making the pyramid stable and successful, so let’s practice patience and collaboration."
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### 4. Wrapping Up and Review (20 minutes)
**Conclusion Dialogue:**
"Wow, what an amazing job everyone did today! You all learned the Star Jump and created a Cheer Pyramid with teamwork and safety. Each of you practiced using your expressions to make the performance lively and attractive."
"Now let’s reflect on what we learned. Why do you think expression is important in a performance? (Pause for answers) Yes, it helps us connect with the audience and make sure they feel part of our excitement!"
"As we finish up, let’s go back to our circle for a final group cheer: 'We did it, yes we did! We performed and had fun, we’re glad we did!'"
"Performing takes practice and energy, and it’s all about enjoying the moment. I hope you had fun, learned something new, and will continue to express yourselves confidently."
"Thank you for being wonderful performers today. Remember, you can always practice these skills at home and put on a show for your family!"
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**Final Task:**
"I want everyone to give themselves a round of applause and a big smile for their hard work! Well done, everyone!"