Create and perform an original kid-friendly rap song, write lyrics and rhythms, practice delivery, then record or share your performance with friends.



Step-by-step guide to compose and share your own rap song
Step 1
Pick a fun topic for your rap like school pets superheroes or favorite games.
Step 2
Write down 5 to 10 words that are about your chosen topic.
Step 3
Circle 4 to 6 words that sound like they could rhyme.
Step 4
Tap a steady beat with your hand or foot to find a rhythm you like.
Step 5
Count how many beats fit into a short phrase to set your rap’s rhythm.
Step 6
Write a catchy 4-line chorus using some of the circled rhyming words.
Step 7
Write one or two short verses that tell a little story about your topic.
Step 8
Tap each written line to hear how the syllables fit the beat.
Step 9
Mark where the beats fall on your page with dashes or dots.
Step 10
Practice rapping slowly while keeping your taps on the beats.
Step 11
Practice again adding expression and fun gestures to your delivery.
Step 12
Rehearse the whole song until you can perform the chorus and verses smoothly twice.
Step 13
Record your rap performance or perform it live for friends or family.
Step 14
Share your finished rap on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!


Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a recorder or can't access DIY.org to 'record your rap performance' and share it?
If you don't have a recorder or DIY.org access, ask an adult to use their smartphone or tablet to record your rehearsed performance (step 'Record your rap performance') and send or upload that file later.
My lines don't fit the beat when I 'tap each written line to hear how the syllables fit the beat'—how can I fix that?
If lines don't fit, tap each written line slowly (step 'Tap each written line'), then change words, shorten phrases, or move and mark the beats with dashes or dots (step 'Mark where the beats fall on your page') until the syllables match the counted beats.
How can I adapt this rap activity for younger kids or make it more challenging for older kids?
For younger kids, limit to 3–5 topic words, a 2-line chorus and clap or stomp for the beat, while older kids can write longer verses, circle 4–6 rhymes to build complex rhyme schemes, and layer parts during rehearsals.
What are some ways to enhance or personalize our rap after we've rehearsed the chorus and verses smoothly twice?
To enhance the finished rap, add a simple percussion instrument or hand-clap routine to match your marked beats, create gestures or a short dance for the chorus, invite friends for harmony on the circled rhyming words, and then share the polished recording on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to compose and share your own rap song
Facts about songwriting and music performance for kids
🎤 Hip hop started in the Bronx, New York in the early 1970s — DJs and MCs threw the first rap parties!
🌍 Rap is a global language: people perform hip hop in hundreds of languages and styles around the world.
📝 Rappers often write like poets, using rhyme schemes and storytelling to make memorable lines.
🧠 Rapping engages brain areas for language and rhythm at the same time — it’s great for memory and timing practice.
🎧 You can record a full rap using just a smartphone and free apps — lots of songs begin as home demos.


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