Smoother classroom transitions with music

Transitions, like cleaning up, switching activities, or coming back from recess, are where a lot of class time disappears. A predictable sound routine helps students know exactly what's happening and how long they have.

A simple routine

  1. Work time: play calm music with no lyrics at a low volume while students work. When the music is on, it's focus time.
  2. The signal: a chime announces that clean-up has started.
  3. The countdown: the music winds down over one minute, so students hear time running out without anyone raising their voice.
  4. The finish: a second chime means everyone should be in their seat and ready.

Why it helps

Calming the room first

After recess or before a test, one minute of slow breathing together can help a class settle. Breathe in for 5 counts and out for 5, following a shape on the screen.

Set it up in Gino

Open the Class room, start the music for work time, and tap "Start 1-minute clean-up" when it's time to switch. Use full-screen mode on the projector. It's free for teachers and students, with no student accounts.

Open the Class room