If you’ve been following the blog, you know we’re huge advocates for integrating all sorts of different technology into the music classroom. Today, we want to share with you an exciting tool that can add a sprinkle of fun and a dash of unpredictability to your lessons: Wheel of Names.
In this blog, you’ll learn all about Wheel of Names, how it works, and fun ways to spice up the learning in your classroom with this FREE tool!
MMC Members: Click here to access the in-depth training inside the Midnight Music Community as well as 15 pre-created game/activity templates to copy for Wheel of Names.
Not a member yet? We’d love to have you join us! Click here for more information.
What is Wheel of Names?
So, what exactly is Wheel of Names? It’s a fabulous free (yes, free!) online tool that lets you create a digital “wheel of fortune” spinner. It’s super user-friendly and allows for all sorts of customization. Whether you want to input names, phrases, ideas, or even images, this tool has opportunities for you to add it all. It’s perfect for adding an element of chance and excitement to your classroom activities.
Getting Started with Wheel of Names
First things first, head over to wheelofnames.com. The interface is straightforward and intuitive. You can start by inputting names, other text, or images directly into the wheel. It’s incredibly easy! Plus, you can tweak the appearance and even add sound effects to match the theme or ‘vibe’ of your lesson.
The ‘Customize’ panel is divided into sections—‘During Spin,’ ‘After Spin,’ and ‘Appearance’—so you can change the wheel’s behavior however you like!
Keep reading to learn how to customize the wheel for your lessons.
Customizing the Wheel
Wheel of Names is so versatile because it offers a high level of customization. You can change the color scheme, add images to the wheel itself, set different sound effects, and many other options. These small changes can make a big difference in keeping your students engaged.
Steps to Customize:
- Click on the “Customize” button.
- Select colors and fonts that match your classroom theme or the lesson’s mood.
- Add names or images relevant to the task (e.g., instrument icons for instrument assignments).
- Choose sound effects that will grab students’ attention.
During Spin Options:
After Spin Options:
Appearance Options:
Saving, Opening, and Sharing Your Wheels
It’s helpful to be able to save your wheels for future uses or applications within your classroom. To do this, you will select “Save” from the top menu bar and then will need to sign in with a Google account or create an account with an email and password.
Opening a Saved Wheel
Once you have created a login, wheels are saved in your account, and you can sort them into folders. Just click on “Open” in the top toolbar menu.
Sharing a Wheel
If you want to share your wheel with other teachers or students (perhaps as a part of a rotation or an activity in centers), just click “Share” in the top menu bar and select your options.
Practical Applications for Wheel of Names in the Music Classroom
There are plenty of creative ways to use Wheel of Names in your music classroom. Here are some ideas:
1. Randomized Student Selection:
Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s hard to pick who’s next. The wheel can help! Input all your students’ names and spin away. It’s a fair and fun way to keep everyone on their toes.
Tip: You can also add all of your students’ names into the wheel in seconds using a spreadsheet or even a live-updating Google form spreadsheet. Learn how to do this step-by-step in the ‘Innovative Ways to Use Wheel of Names’ webinar replay inside the Midnight Music Community (MMC Members: Click Here to Discover creative ways to use Wheel of Names!)
2. Instrument and Performance Assignments:
This is especially handy in group settings. By letting the wheel assign different instruments, tempos, and dynamics, you can ensure balanced participation.
Example: Create a wheel with different combinations of instrument sections, choral voicings or other groups to perform an example or rehearse a section. You can also create a wheel with different tempo markings, warm-ups or dynamics to change how your students rehearse.
Here is an example of a band warm-up wheel:
3. Music Theory Drills:
Music theory can sometimes be a bit dry. Spice it up by using the wheel to select random drills or questions. It adds an element of surprise and keeps the practice engaging.
Example: Input different music theory questions, topics, solfege syllables, or rhythmic exercises. Spin the wheel to determine the next drill or discussion point.
Tip: Grab rhythmic image examples using a free, online tool called The Rhythm Randomizer!
Here is an example of a rhythmic drill exercise using a wheel with images (for a step-by-step tutorial, watch the webinar replay inside the Midnight Music Community):
4. Song Choice:
Deciding on the next song to practice in rehearsal doesn’t have to be routine or boring. Let the wheel decide! It’s a great way to keep the selection process unbiased and fun.
Example: Enter the song titles of your current repertoire into the wheel. Spin to choose the next song to work on. You can also throw in a song from earlier in the year just to play through for fun or add a couple of ‘Brain Break’ activities sprinkled in.
Integrating with Other Tools
Wheel of Names is versatile and can be integrated with other digital tools and platforms you might already be using. For example, you can share the wheel via a projector or screen share during online lessons. You can also embed it into presentations or lesson plans.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure smooth sailing with Wheel of Names in your classroom:
- Prepare in Advance: Set up the wheel before class starts to save time and avoid any technical hiccups.
- Test the Tool: Make sure the wheel works properly and is visible to all students, whether in-person or online.
- Engage Students: Encourage students to suggest categories or items for the wheel. It’s a great way to boost their investment and excitement.
- Use Regularly: Incorporate the wheel into regular activities so students become familiar with it and look forward to its use.
Final Thoughts
The Wheel of Names is such a versatile and engaging tool that can really enhance your music teaching strategy. It’s free and so easy to use! It’s truly never been easier to add a bit of fun and unpredictability to your classroom, keeping students motivated and involved. Whether you’re assigning instruments, rehearsing repertoire, hosting a game, choosing random names, or drilling music theory, the Wheel of Names offers a dynamic way to facilitate these activities in a game-like atmosphere.
Do You Want Even MORE training & pre-made templates for Wheel of Names?
Click here for more information about joining the Midnight Music Communityand get access to this in-depth, on-demand webinar replay with extensive training for Wheel of Names called, “Innovative Ways to Use Wheel of Names in Music Class.”
This on-demand webinar replay also includes:
- How to sync Wheel of Names to a live Google Form
- How to create your own rhythmic and melodic image examples for your wheels
- 15 pre-created, editable templates for music classroom wheels and games, designed by Katie (plus ideas on how to use them)
- How to embed your wheel in presentations and slides
- A PD certificate and MORE!
Already an MMC member? Click here to go directly to the training!
Want more resources for music tech teachers?
Hello! I’m Katie Argyle – an Australian music technology trainer and consultant with a passion for helping music teachers through my business Midnight Music.
I’m a qualified teacher but no, I don’t currently teach in a school. I help teachers through my online professional development space – the Midnight Music Community– where there are tutorial videos, courses, links and downloadable resources.
I like to focus on easy ways to incorporate technology into what you are already doing in your music curriculum through a range of creative projects. I also run live workshops and have presented at countless conferences and other music education events.
If you want simple, effective ideas for using technology in music education, I would LOVE to help you inside the Midnight Music Community.
