Eight-Count Group Choreography

Each group creates one eight-count section, and the class links them into one routine danced from start to finish to a song. Students practice composing movement, movement memory and moving in sync with the music.

How to play

1. Play a medium-tempo song and teach how to count the beats: everyone marches in place counting 1 to 8 out loud (3 min).
2. Form 5 groups of 5; each group creates an eight-count section that includes a traveling move, a turn and an arm gesture (8 min).
3. One at a time, each group teaches its section to the class, repeating it three times slowly and once at tempo (6 min).
4. Link the five sections in order and rehearse the full routine with music two or three times (6 min).
5. Set the class in a staggered formation so everyone can see, and dance the whole routine twice in a row (3 min).
6. Half the class performs the final version while the other half watches, then switch (2 min).

Rules

• Every section must be doable by any classmate: no stunts or risky jumps.
• Respect the turn of the group teaching its section.
• Keep at least an arm's length between dancers at all times.
• Try every group member's ideas before choosing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the group includes arm and torso moves the student can do seated, and the whole class dances them.
• Hearing impairment: put a visual leader in front who shows the count with fingers.
• Fitness level: alternate half-speed run-throughs with full-tempo ones to manage effort.

Learning goals

• Compose a movement sequence that fits eight musical counts.
• Memorize and link several sections of a routine.
• Move in sync with the music and the group.

Equipment for a class of 25

• music
• speakers: 1

Teacher tip

Pick songs with a very clear beat and school-appropriate lyrics. If a section is too hard, ask the group to simplify it: the routine has to work for everyone.

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