round and round song

modifying this technique

  • If you have nonverbal students in your class, you could change the words to “What’s their name?”. The song becomes a game to test how well you know everyone's names, and it stays low-exposure.
  • If you have a large class, this song could take a while. Keep students focused by asking them to sing in the style of different characters. For example: a robot, a mouse, the Queen of England. For a faster name game, check out the Look Who's Here Song.
  • This song could be modified to elicit responses to a wide range of questions. Consider changing “What’s your name?” to something based on your lesson’s content, for example “What’s your favorite color?” or “How do you feel today?”

Lyrics

Round and round is the name of the game!
Round and round and what’s your name?
(Student says their name.)
Helloooooo [Name]!

Repeat around the circle until everyone has shared their name.

skill breakdown

SCAFFOLDING
Remember, every activity in your class can be scaffolded, even songs. Make sure everyone understands each step before moving onto the next.

  • Why? Scaffolding activities is a way to make sure no one is left behind.
  • Notice: Karim practices each step with a lot of detail. If your class is more advanced, feel free to facilitate the song faster.

STEP ONE: THIS IS A SONG
Karim lets the students know this is a song about names. 

  • Why? Being specific about the activity you are starting helps set clear behavior expectations for your students.

STEP TWO: FIRST VERSE
The first verse goes “Round and round is the name of the game!” Karim introduces the words and gestures at the same time.

  • Why? The gestures help students remember the song through kinesthetic learning.

STEP THREE: SECOND VERSE
The second verse goes “Round and round, and what’s your name?” Karim again introduces the gestures and the lyrics at the same time. He is careful to make sure the gestures match the rhythm of the lyrics.

  • Why? Practicing rhythm help students develop important motor skills.

STEP FOUR: PUT IT TOGETHER
Practice both verses together. Karim models this first, and then asks students to join in.

  • Why? Karim is making sure the students have mastered the lyrics before moving on.

STEP FIVE: GO AROUND THE CIRCLE
Karim explains that this song goes around the circle. When it gets to each student, they say their name.

STEP SIX: HELLOOOO [NAME]
The final verse consists of saying “Helllooooo [name]” to whomever has just shared their name.

  • Notice: Karim takes his time practicing this step. After practicing it twice, he seamlessly continues around the circle.