Submitted by Cak

Idea posted March 31, 2005

Tennis balls are GREAT to teach rhythm. We use them for meter.

  • Bounce is always on beat one.
  • Bounce - catch is for 2/4 time. (Speech is "Ice Cream!")
  • Bounce - catch - toss is for 3/4 time. Bounce with dominant hand, catch with opposite hand, then toss to dominant hand. (Speech is "Ice Cream Cone!")
  • Bounce - catch - toss - toss is for 4/4 time. Bounce with dominant hand, catch with opposite hand, toss to dominant hand, then toss to opposite hand. (Speech is "Ice Cream Two Scoops!")

You can even do mixed meter with the combinations. One warning: Have DEFINITE rules about out-of-control tennis balls. We use this activity during the second half of third grade, but there's no reason it could not be adapted to even older grades. Used tennis balls are always available from your local sports clubs. We have a constant supply.