Your Favorite Rap Song
Write and perform your own rap about a favorite topic, creating lyrics, rhythm patterns, and simple beats using body percussion or household items.
Step-by-step guide to write and perform your favorite rap song
Step 1
Pick your favorite topic to rap about and say it out loud once.
Step 2
Write down five words or short phrases about your topic on your paper.
Step 3
Choose a steady tempo and practice keeping time by clapping or tapping your lap.
Step 4
Make a simple 4-beat rhythm using body percussion or one household item and repeat it.
Step 5
Write a short chorus of four lines that you will repeat after each verse.
Step 6
Write two short verses with two to four lines each using some of the words you listed.
Step 7
Mark the strong beats or count the syllables in each line so your words fit the rhythm.
Step 8
Practice saying your chorus and verses aloud while keeping your 4-beat rhythm steady.
Step 9
Add one or two simple hand movements or facial expressions to make your performance lively.
Step 10
Perform your rap and then share your finished creation 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 paper or a household item for the rhythm?
If you don't have paper use a notebook, sticky note, or the Notes app to write your five words and use a wooden spoon, book, or an empty plastic container as the household item to make your 4-beat rhythm.
My words keep sounding rushed or don't fit the beat—how do I fix that?
Mark the strong beats or count syllables in each line and then shorten lines or swap in words from your five-word list until each verse and the four-line chorus fit the steady 4-beat rhythm.
How can I change the activity to suit younger kids or older kids?
For younger kids simplify to a two-line chorus, use picture cards for the five words and basic claps for the rhythm, while older kids can write more verses, add syncopation to the 4-beat pattern with extra household instruments, and record a take to upload to DIY.org.
How can we make the rap more interesting or longer once the basic version is done?
Extend your piece by adding a short bridge or call-and-response between chorus repeats, introduce one or two extra body-percussion sounds or a second household instrument for harmony, and create matching hand movements or facial expressions tied to the chorus before sharing on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to write and perform your favorite rap song
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How To Write A Rap Song, From Start To Finish (Step-By-Step)
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Facts about songwriting and rhythm for kids
✍️ Many rap songs are built around a catchy chorus or hook that repeats to help listeners remember the song.
🥁 Beatboxing lets performers mimic whole drum kits, basslines, and sound effects using only their mouth and voice.
🎤 Rap grew out of block parties in the Bronx in the 1970s, where DJs and MCs hyped up crowds with rhymes.
🧠 Writing and performing rap practices rhythm, vocabulary, and memory because you’re creating rhymes and patterns.
👣 You can make a full beat with body percussion — claps, snaps, stomps, and pats — no instruments needed.
How do you write and perform a rap with kids about a favorite topic?
What materials do I need to create a kid-friendly rap performance at home?
What ages is writing and performing a rap suitable for?
What are the benefits of kids writing and performing their own rap songs?
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