Kick Off the New School Year with a Fun Name Chant and Beatmaking Activity

Welcome back, music educators! What better way to kick off the school year than with an activity that’s both musical and personal? Let’s make the first day back memorable with a Name Chant that helps you learn every student’s name while building an engaging musical experience.

The Name Chant: Your New Favorite Icebreaker

Start by gathering your students in a circle. Begin with a steady body percussion beat – a simple clap, snap, or pat on the legs works perfectly. Now, chant:

“Say your name, and when you do, we will say it back to you.
Sarah... Sarah!”

Repeat for each student. Encourage them to say their name confidently, and as a class, you’ll echo it back, keeping the steady beat going. This not only helps you learn their names quickly but also gives everyone a chance to groove to the rhythm!

Once all the names are done, transition into a digital beatmaking session. Let’s add a little free tech tool! I will show you three, but ultimately, choose one.

1. Bite-Sized Beats: A Fun, Interactive Start https://lebeabae.github.io/Bite-Size-Beats/

Now that you’ve got the beat going, introduce your students to Bite-Sized Beats. This website allows you to create rhythms with fun, animated M&Ms beatboxing! Drag and drop beats, melodies, effects, and voices to build your very own unique sound. You can even unlock a video section to add a B section to your rap. If you love Incredibox but want a more classroom vibe, this is the perfect option.

2. Splice Beatmaker: Colorful Loops, Endless Possibilities https://splice.com/sounds/beatmaker Next, let’s try Splice Beatmaker. The site is a visual treat, offering colorful tracks with loops from various artists. Create a beat to accompany your Name Chant. Experiment with the loops, melodies, and effects, and allow your students to take turns adding new elements. This will give them a sense of ownership over their music and a deeper understanding of rhythm and structure. You can share the beat by creating a free account.

3. 808 Cube: Fun with a Rubik’s Cube Vibe https://808cube.com/

Finally, introduce 808 Cube, a beatmaking tool with a Rubik’s Cube-like interface. Students can create beats by manipulating three sides of the cube: bass, snare, and percussion. The real fun begins when you click on the center of the cube to change the sounds. Once you’ve created your rap, click the choice arrow icon to see the magic unfold. This interactive visual element will grab your students’ attention and make them excited to participate.

Wrap It Up: A Musical Memory That Sticks

By the end of this activity, your students will not only have fun creating beats, but they will also recall each other's names in a musical way. It’s a fantastic starter, setting the tone for a year filled with creativity and collaboration. You’ll start your first day back with energy, excitement, and a deep connection to each of your students.

Ready to Get Started?

You’re all set! With these free online tools, you can easily create a rhythm-based classroom that engages your students from day one. The Name Chant, combined with beatmaking, will make your class their new favorite place to be. Or have your students create a "Classroom Expectation Chant" using the same lesson.

Have fun, and let the music begin!