Lessons With Shana

Need a last-minute music sub plan? You’re not alone. With trips, meetings, and general burnout, it’s a lifesaver to have low-prep activities on hand.

Here are three sub-friendly ideas (even for non-music subs!):

🎧 Listening Response Sheets – Choose a YouTube performance or have students pick their own and respond to guided prompts: What’s the mood? What elements of music do you notice?

🎲 Music Theory Games – Use printable matching cards, bingo, or rhythm decoding. Students can work in pairs or small groups while reviewing foundational skills.

Here is a FREE sample of my music crossword puzzle:

📝 Reflection Prompts – Ask students to reflect on a favorite piece they’ve learned this year and what made it memorable. It’s simple, meaningful, and quiet.

Here is a FREE sample of my junior music student reflection activity:

Tip: Have a folder of “emergency lessons” ready for June. Want to skip the prep? I’ve got a few ready-to-go resources in my Teachers Pay Teachers store.

If you like some of these sample resources, check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store!