Simple Four-Step Line Dance

The whole class learns a line dance with four basic steps (grapevine, step forward and back, quarter turn and claps) repeated while facing a different wall each time. Students practice rhythm, remembering a sequence and spatial awareness.

How to play

1. Set the class in five lines of five, with a cone numbered 1 to 4 against each wall for orientation (2 min).
2. Without music, teach step 1: grapevine right (four counts) and grapevine left (four counts) (3 min).
3. Teach step 2: two steps forward with a clap and two steps back with a clap (3 min).
4. Teach step 3: rock forward and back, then a quarter turn right to face the next cone (3 min).
5. Link the three steps plus four closing claps and repeat without music until you have faced all four walls (4 min).
6. Dance the whole song with music; the front line moves to the back each time through so everyone leads (5 min).

Rules

• Keep an arm's length from the dancers on each side.
• If you get lost, look at the wall cone and wait for the next step 1.
• Everyone turns the same way so nobody collides.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student replaces steps with short wheelchair moves and claps, and still makes the quarter turn.
• Visual impairment: place the student next to a partner guide and call each step with key words.
• Fitness level: a student who needs a rest can keep the beat with claps from the side for one song.

Learning goals

• Perform a step sequence in time with the music.
• Remember and link the steps of a line dance.
• Stay oriented in space after each turn.

Equipment for a class of 25

• music
• speakers: 1
• cones: 4

Teacher tip

Face away from the class at first so they copy you without the mirror effect. Choose a song around 120 beats per minute, not too fast or too slow.

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