This lesson plan works well with grade 2-8 and can be adapted in many ways. It’s a good activity for the beginning of the year when you’re trying to learn new students’ names!
Grades 2-8
Students will write a 4-measure name rap within the specified structure and create a rhythmic backing to accompany themselves.
USA
1. Singing alone and with others, a varied repertoire
4. Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines
Computer, iPad or other tablet device
Music software, app or website that allows you to create a rhythmic accompaniment
Rap structure template
Smartphone, iPad, or other tablet to video-record performances (optional)
1-2 lessons
Speaking lyrics in time to a beat
Part 1: Preparation
As a group, keep a steady beat using body percussion. Practice saying the name rap over the steady beat – use the samples below or ask students to make up their own.
Part 2: Write the rap
Ask students to write a rap using their own name, based on the structure provided below. They can work individually or in pairs (one student can keep a steady beat while the other practices saying their name rap)
Rap Structure
Tempo 80-90 BPM
Hey I’m ________ and I like to ___________
(in second line, say something about thing you like. The final word in this line should rhyme with the end of line 1)
I like that
Oh yeah, I like that
Listening example:
Notation:
Example 1: (by a grade 3 student)
Hey I’m Josh and I like to sing
It sounds croaky in the morning but I am the king
I like that
Oh yeah, I like that
Example 2:
Hey I’m Ava and I like the color blue
It makes me happy, so what you gonna do?
I like that
Oh yeah, I like that
Part 3: Create a rhythmic accompaniment
Using your chosen music software, app or website, create an 8-measure rhythmic accompaniment to go with the rap.
Note: 8 measures of rhythmic accompaniment will give students a two-measure introduction before they start rapping, and a two-measure outro at the end.
Option 1: Desktop software
Launch your choice of software (such as GarageBand, Mixcraft, Soundation, Soundtrap)
Set the tempo to approx 80 BPM
Audition drum loops and select a suitable one to go with the rap
Drag the loop on to the project area and extend it until it is 8 measures in length
Option 2: GarageBand on iPad
Open the GarageBand app and create a new song
Select the Smart Drums
Choose a drum kit and drag instruments on to the grid to build up a rhythmic pattern
Press Record and record 8 measures
Option 3: Beatlab
Visit www.beatlab.com (free online rhythmic step sequencer)
Set the tempo to Slow
Build up a rhythmic pattern by clicking on the squares of the step sequencer (it’s a good idea to start with the bass drum on beats 1 and 3 and the snare on beats 2 and 4 and then add other sounds
Related: for other rhythmic accompaniment options, see How To Make A Funky Beat In 30 Seconds
Part 4: Perform the rap
Start the rhythmic accompaniment and after two measures, start saying the rap. There will be a two measure outro at the end.
Video-record the student performances using a Smartphone, iPad or other tablet or camera.
If your music software/app allows, add an audio track and record the rap part over the backing. Other instrumental backing parts can be added as well: bass line, keyboard part, strings and so on.
Older students can create a drum part from scratch using a software instrument: add a drum track, record a 1 or 2 measure loop and then extend the length of the recorded loop to 8 measures
Notate the rap using stick notation: use pencil and paper, notation software such as Noteflight, Sibelius, Finale or MuseScore, or apps such as NotateMe or Notion (Noteflight is also an excellent choice for iPads and other tablets).
The students can successfully perform their name rap over the top of their rhythmic accompaniment.