STOMP is a fun performance where men and women create rhythm and music with every day items. The show that started out as a street performance has now become a highly choreographed percussion performance that excites all who see and hear it. Although STOMP is best experienced live, the video can be used in your classroom as an introduction to many lessons on sound.
Using STOMP in Your Classroom
STOMP videos are used in many music classrooms, and are highly popular with both the teachers and the students who see them. There is no age requirement to show the video, although Pre-K and Kindergarten may not be able to watch an entire video because of their shorter attention span. Teachers often use STOMP as a substitute lesson idea when they need to take a day off, or as a special lesson for when classes are mixed up for a special event. Since watching videos are not a normal classroom event, this is a great way to mix your lessons up and keep your class under control in less than optimal circumstances.
Additional Lessons Learned from STOMP
Although many teachers use the STOMP video as a stand alone lesson with no need for follow up, there are great lessons that can be taught after this video has been shown. The STOMP website contains lesson ideas and activities that are appropriate for both younger students and older students. There is also a study guide that teachers can download that follows along with STOMP.
For younger students, the lessons include learning to listen, identifying sounds, amplifying sounds, sounds that we cannot hear, sound scavenger hunt and learning about why we have two ears. There are also several lessons about sound waves, teaching students where sound comes from, and how sound gets from one place to another.
Lessons for older students include the basics of sound, turning sound into music, the difference between noise and sound, and learning about rhythm. These lessons on the site detail how to teach each concept, and a list of any necessary materials. There are also several activities for teachers to do with their students that help to teach students about sound and percussion.
Teaching children about rhythm can be fun and educational at the same time. Although a trip to see STOMP live may not be possible, bringing this exciting performance into your classroom will be sure to thrill all your students. Encourage your students to ask questions and be flexible in your lesson planning to follow the interests that come up.
Read more tips for music teachers.
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