To use Drum Jam to review material, create gaps in the rhythm during which students shout out word associations or answers to questions. Be creative. Or just let your students lead the way. Once the drumming gets rid of the nerves, ideas can flow.
Ideal Size
This is best in groups of 10-12, but could work in groups of up to 30.
Use For
Waking people up after lunch or anytime the sleepies are setting in.
Time Needed
10 minutes is ideal.
Materials Needed
None. We’ll be drumming with our hands on the desks, chairs, whatever is available.
Instructions
Start your group by practicing a few rhythms. Tap a simple beat, repeatedly, and have the class follow you. A 3- or 4-beat measure works best.
When ready, you start with a simple beat. The next person adds something different to your beat, and so on around the room. Encourage creativity, fun, syncopation, and a mixture of techniques.
You might start with a slower beat to practice and then pick it up.
Some options to explore:
- Tapping with fingers only.
- Slapping with whole palm.
- Tapping with finger nails only.
- Knocking with knuckles.
- Banging with soft side of fist.
- Three quick taps in one beat.
- Pausing a beat.
Example
Start with two finger taps on your right hand and a knock with your left knuckles. Tap, tap, knock. Tap, tap, knock. The next person adds a bang, pause, slap. Bang, pause, slap. And the next, Slap, tap-tap-tap, bang.
Tip
If the exercise gets out of control or rhythm, simply stop and start again. It takes a little practice.
Debriefing
If desired, talk about cooperation and team work, listening and responding, creativity and rhythm.
The Ice Breaker Forum
Share your favorite, or worst!, ice breakers in the Continuing Education Forum.
