Songwriter Swap
Fast and Easy Songwriting Collaboration Activity
Songwriter swap is an easy and collaborative activity that can be done as a warm up or extended into a full project.
Overview:
Students pick a rhyme scheme, write a line and then trade papers with another student and continue until all students have written four lines. This activity is designed to introduce students to various rhyme schemes in a low-stakes, engaging environment where creativity takes center stage. The lesson encourages students to experiment with lyric writing without worrying about perfection or the final outcome.
Handout:
Songwriter Swap Lesson Plan
Objective:
Students will explore different rhyme schemes and collaborate to write four-line verses, enhancing their understanding of lyrical structure and creativity in songwriting.
Materials Needed:
1. Handouts with rhyme scheme instructions
2. Pencils/pens
3. Background tracks or instruments (optional)
4. Whiteboard and markers
Lesson Activities:
Introduction:
Briefly review the concept of rhyme schemes, discussing how they shape the structure of lyrics.
Introduce the four rhyme schemes: ABCB, ABAB, AABB, and AAAA, explaining each with simple examples.
Handout Distribution:
Distribute the handouts that outline the four rhyme schemes. Ensure each student understands the task: they will select one rhyme scheme and write a four-line song collaboratively with their peers, but they will only be writing the first line right not. MAKE SURE STUDENTS PUT THEIR NAME ON THE HANDOUT!
Collaborative Writing Activity
Students choose a rhyme scheme and write the first line of their four-line song on their handout. After writing the first line, students pass their paper to a random classmate (or more orderly if you prefer). It is recommended that you time each line writing session as well as timing the passing of papers. A few minutes to write and thirty seconds to pass papers is usually enough.
Each student writes the second line on the new paper they receive, following the chosen rhyme scheme. Continue passing the papers until all four lines are written by four different students. Ensure students understand they need to follow the selected rhyme scheme throughout the process.
Reading and Discussion
Students receive their original papers back with the completed four-line song. Have students put a title on their song based on the finished product.
Each student reads their collaboratively written verse aloud to the class or in small groups. Facilitate a discussion on the experience, focusing on how the different contributions shaped the final product. Encourage students to share their thoughts on working with different rhyme schemes and collaborating with peers.
Reflection
Conclude with a brief reflection, asking students what they learned about rhyme schemes and the collaborative process. Ask them if they found this process easier or harder than simply writing the song themselves. Discuss how they can use different rhyme schemes in their future songwriting projects.
Extension
Encourage students to experiment with putting these lyrics over a chord progression. If possible provide time to do so. This is also a great time to experiment with having an AI application set the lyrics.
National Core Arts Standards Alignment:
Creating (MU.1.5a): Students will generate musical ideas for various purposes and contexts.
Performing (MU.2.5a): Students will demonstrate the ability to read and perform music.
Responding (MU.1.5a): Students will perceive and analyze music.
Connecting (MU.0.5a): Students will synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make music.
Additional Tips and Tricks:
1. Work hard to keep the tone of this activity light and playful.
2. The timer is your friend. Get students focused on getting "something" down, even if it's not perfect.
3. Be ready to help students with rhymes if they get stuck. There is nothing wrong with using a rhyming dictionary or other tools.
Special Thanks to Professor Honky Tonk himself, Dr. Jordan Stern for recommending a version of this activity.