Group Merge: Linking Phrases with Transitions
Each group of four creates an 8-count phrase; then two groups merge and invent the transitions that connect their phrases, and finally four groups combine into one shared piece. Students work on cooperation, negotiating ideas, and designing smooth transitions.
How to play
- Form groups of 4 and have each create an 8-count phrase that starts and ends in a clear position (4 minutes).
- Merge 1 (6 minutes): two groups join, teach each other their phrases, and design a 4-count transition from one group's phrase into the other's. Result: 20 counts danced by the group of 8.
- Quick showing between two neighboring merged groups (2 minutes) to check that the transition doesn't break the flow.
- Merge 2 (7 minutes): two groups of 8 join into a group of 16. They must order the four phrases, keep the transitions, and add one more between the two big blocks.
- Each large group chooses a formation and runs the full piece twice (4 minutes).
- Each large group performs for the other (2 minutes); discuss which transition looked most natural.
Rules
- Large groups dance inside their cone zone so they don't crowd others.
- Transitions that travel are done walking, not running.
- If you disagree, vote by show of hands and accept the result.
Variations
Easier
Do only the first merge, with a walking transition.
Standard
Two merges with original transitions, building up to one large-group piece.
Harder
In the final merge, all four phrases are danced at the same time for 8 counts, each subgroup doing its own.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: design transitions the student can follow in a wheelchair, such as turns or wide curved paths.
- Shy students: in the big merges they can dance in back positions and share ideas in writing on a card.
- Skill level: groups who struggle use 8-count transitions.
Learning goals
- Design smooth transitions between different dance phrases.
- Negotiate and combine several groups' ideas into one piece.
- Cooperate in larger and larger groups while keeping movement quality.
Equipment for a class of 25
- music
- portable speaker: 1
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
In merge 2, a few leaders tend to take over; assign roles (counter, phrase organizer, space monitor) so everyone contributes. Keep the music on a loop so you don't have to keep stopping.
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