Years ago, I started using Youtube Playlists for my sub plans. I understand that this may not work well in all situations and with all students, but I have found it to be very successful in the right environments.  Youtube Playlist Sub Plans are a great way to keep students singing and moving during your absence and are perfect for a non-music substitute in the music classroom. 

First, assemble your playlist.  If your class periods are an hour long, I recommend about 30-35 minutes worth of material at this point (we’ll add more in a bit!).  This will provide time for transitions, repeating or pausing of a video, and work time on any necessary concepts. 

I tend to avoid any kind of lengthy music theory explanations unless I have an accompanying worksheet that I want them to complete. Videos should be under 3-5 minutes each for the best results.

Next, create and upload any videos of yourself that you want to include.  This could be a quick explanation, sightreading exercise, pronunciation video, etc. In the playlist examples below, you can see a key signature practice using Sightreading Factory and a Latin pronunciation video.  You could also use this time to work on score markings, articulations, etc.  These videos do not need to have high production value!  Loom or Screencastify work perfectly well to screen record.  

The next step is to put them in the “correct” order. I like to begin with any warm-up type songs or activities first, then music theory/sightreading, then videos I’ve recorded about their music, pronunciation, etc.  I usually end with the choir listening examples, Just Dance, chair yoga, or karaoke.

Once I’ve put them in the correct order, I record a short introduction video.  Using Loom or Screencastify (or similar platform), you can talk the students and your substitute through your lesson and expectations while showing the playlist.  This is also a time where you can verbalize any other reminders or announcements. If they will need papers or a worksheet, be sure to mention this. 

I like to include a letter to the substitute that outlines my schedule, emergency information, and expectations.  Depending on how you send sub plans to your substitute, you can send a link or a QR code for them to pull up the playlist.  You can also post the playlist to Google Classroom for the students to access and assist the substitute. 

I don’t use this Youtube Playlist concept in an emergency sub situation.  These are usually for planned absences, so that I am able to prepare and train students for the lesson.  When you’re able to prepare them properly, this is a very successful arrangement for you, the students, and the substitute.  Subs and covering teachers love these sub plans!

Here are two examples of Youtube Playlist Sub Plans that I have used in my classroom:

My Youtube channel for Sarah Stockton Resources has multiple Warm-Up videos, Solfege Call-and Response, Rhythm Clap-Alongs, and more.  I’m adding more weekly, so hopefully there’s something you can find to use for your very own Youtube Playlist Sub Plans!