There are times when a particular song seems as if it were written for us. When these songs come to us, it’s important to recognize the message they bring and allow the music to be our “theme song” until we arrive at a new place in life and a new tune. This activity provides wonderful classroom connections as students recognize shared life experiences.

Use as an opener to encourage interaction and build community.

How to Share My Life is a Song

Students take two minutes with a partner to share a song they feel is a theme song for their life. The song can be about something currently important, a feeling in the moment, a significant song from the past, or a song they simply can’t get out of their heads.

Students share the song titles with the class, giving a one-sentence reason for the song’s significance. For a shorter activity, have them write their song titles on sticky notes or paper and post them on a bulletin board for others to see.

Keep the Beat Going

Sing-Along Song

Let students sing their song to the class if they choose, or have them bring a recording of their song later and play it. Ask the class to sing along with the recording.

For teachers:

You might have some ground rules for music sharing such as: no one can complain about anyone else’s music; inappropriate lyrics are not tolerated; and students must explain what they particularly like about the selection they bring and how they feel this music improves their lives. This teaches students how to use music intentionally and helps them recognize they have a choice in the music they listen to. Once students hear different styles of music, the range of music they enjoy often expands.

Excerpted from Soundtracks for Learning by Chris Boyd Brewer, ©2008. This title is available for purchase at www.musicandlearning.com. Used with permission from the author.