Classroom Samba BUNDLE of rhythm and percussion lessons for middle school

Looking for engaging rhythm lessons that your students will actually be excited about? This no-prep Classroom Samba Bundle includes three themed samba lessons — Smoothie Stand, Mountain Explorers, and Rock ’n’ Roll — giving you a ready-made sequence of rhythm activities for your upper elementary and middle school general music classes. Each samba follows the same familiar structure, so students know what to expect, while introducing new rhythms and challenges as they progress. Great as an introduction to world music percussion lessons or as a fresh alternative to your usual rhythm work.

What’s included?
3 complete classroom samba lessons (PowerPoint + Google Slides for each)
Embedded audio clips in every lesson to demonstrate rhythms
Teacher instructions with step-by-step guidance for teaching and performing
Optional printable rhythm cards for group ostinato rhythms
Optional worksheets (use in class or as homework)

Tell me more!
Each samba is a 5-section rhythm piece designed to get students reading and performing rhythms together, using call & response, ostinatos, imitation, and group performance. The themes make each rhythm fun and memorable, while the familiar structure helps students quickly feel confident in the activity.

The three sambas are designed to work as a progression:
Smoothie Stand – Beginner-friendly, using only crotchets, quavers and crotchet rests. Students split into two parts.
Mountain Explorers – Introduces semiquavers notes and more rhythmic variety. Students split into four parts.
Rock ’n’ Roll – The most challenging, with syncopation, ties and upbeats. Students split into four parts and change rhythms later.

Ideal for:
Progression - use with one class over a few weeks as they learn new rhythms
Multiple year groups - use one with each class to suit their level

Each samba can be taught in 20–30 minutes or extended into a full lesson with group swaps, performances, and the worksheets provided. They require no prep, no technology except your screen, and can be played with any percussion instruments — samba drums, untuned percussion, bucket drums, or simply clapping/body percussion.

Why buy the bundle?

Cost effective – three lessons for less than buying individually.
Clear progression – build students’ skills step by step.
Consistent format – familiar routines make students confident and engaged.
Flexible – use them as one-off lessons, a short rhythm unit, or as go-to activities throughout the year.

This Classroom Samba Bundle is a fun, practical world music percussion activity that balances performance and literacy — and keeps students engaged as they grow in confidence and ability.

Check out my store for other theory lessons, music games, and more!