We have done one year of CC. I do agree that knowing the timeline gives you the ability to place things in line in history. Even for myself, when I hear something on the news or during my Perspectives class (a class that focuses on world missions), I would recognize events and be able to pull up in my mind what else was going on at that time.
As far as the motions go, I believe it would be most beneficial to allow children to make up their own motions, particularly if you have children in the upper elementary or middle school ages. Creating their own motions will give them a stronger mental connection, rather than just memorizing the motions someone else created. Also, it will make the process more enjoyable.
