By Mrs Martin (Head of Year 5)

This week, Year 5 began their new Unit of Inquiry, How We Express Ourselves, exploring the central idea that Performance is a powerful way to express ideas, feelings and culture.

To launch the unit, the girls took part in a provocation activity where they investigated a range of performances from different cultures, time periods and settings. Working collaboratively, they explored images and video clips linked to the Globe Theatre, Ancient Greek theatre, African ceremonial performances and modern performances such as Physical theatre, concerts and spoken word poetry.

Through discussion, the girls identified common features of performance. They concluded that performances are often planned events that involve specific skills such as acting, singing, dancing or music. They recognised that performances may be live or recorded and are usually created with an audience in mind. One of the most interesting discussions centred around the purpose of performance. While many girls initially suggested that performances are designed to entertain, they soon began to recognise that performances can also communicate important messages, celebrate culture, tell stories, share experiences and even challenge an audience's thinking.

This provocation has provided an exciting starting point for our inquiry. Over the coming weeks, the girls will use historical evidence to explore how performances have changed over time (Form), how different cultures create and interpret performances (Perspective), and the responsibilities involved in sharing stories and experiences through performance (Responsibility). We are looking forward to seeing where their questions and discoveries lead them.