Cup Code: Write It Down, Let Another Group Play It

Groups write a cup rhythm in a symbol code, and another group has to crack it and play it. It practices reading and writing rhythm and giving precise instructions.

How to play

1. Learn four symbols: clap, cup tap on the floor, cup flip from upside down to upright and palm slap on the floor (5 min).
2. As a class, play a model eight-box code the teacher draws on the board or a big card (6 min).
3. Groups of four write their own eight-count code on a card and rehearse it (7 min).
4. Swap cards: each group cracks and plays another group's code while the authors listen and correct (8 min).
5. Link two codes into a sixteen-count phrase played by the whole class (4 min).

Rules

• Tap cups on the floor, never against other cups or people.
• One symbol per box; empty boxes are rests.
• Authors may not play their code while the other group is cracking it; they only listen.
• Give specific feedback: "Box 5 is a flip."

Variations

Adaptations

• Blind or low-vision students: a raised code made with stickers or modeling clay, read by touch.
• Wheelchair users: cup on a table at the right height.
• Students with reading difficulties: big colored symbols instead of small signs.

Learning goals

• Write and read rhythm with a custom code.
• Perform a rhythmic sequence with cups.
• Give clear instructions to another group.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hard plastic cups: 30
• cards: 10
• markers: 8

Teacher tip

Hard plastic stacking cups are ideal; thick plastic cups or clean large yogurt tubs also work. Hand out cards with the eight boxes already drawn so they don't waste time with rulers.

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