Hop - A Steady Beat Game Variation

This is a game taught to me by one of my former university professors. It's very similar to the steady beat game described in a previous lesson plan post, so see that post for what kind of music you'd want to play in the background.

Begin by tapping the steady beat of the song on your body (knees, shoulders, head, etc). Students do NOT follow you until you say "HOP". When you say "HOP", move your beat to a different place. Students do the movement you just did. So, if you're tapping on your knees, yell "hop" and move to your head, students tap their knees while you tap your head. Then, say "HOP" and move again. Students tap their heads, just like you were.

This game is great to introduce when the steady beat game starts to get boring for your students. It teaches your kids steady beat and to look ahead and process what you're doing while doing something else. This skill helps them learn how to look ahead while reading music! So cool and so fun!

When they get the hang of it, pick a student leader to take over while you set up, take attendance, talk to that kid privately, whatever. Leading this game is harder than leading the steady beat game for sure and the extra challenge is sometimes just what your kids need when your opening activity gets a little worn out.