The last few days before the holiday break are either a lot of fun for teachers or more like the last lap in Mario Kart. As the break keeps inching closer, teachers and students are winding down their years with fun and laughter, thanks to the latest TikTok trend in classrooms: the “Guess the Voice” challenge. We’re highlighting three teachers—Miss G., Mr. Shackleton, and Miss Z.—who took their skills to TikTok.
What is the “Guess the Voice” challenge?
Basically, it’s a challenge to see whether a teacher can identify her students by voice. This adorable game not only offers a lighthearted diversion but seems to be a wonderful was to show the strong connections teachers have with their students.
How do you play Guess the Voice?
You just need a few steps to play this game with your students.
- First, sit in a chair facing away from all your students.
- Next, have students line up single file behind you so you can’t see them.
- Instruct your students to either greet you or say a short phrase common in your classroom. “Hey Ms./Mr. [Teacher’s Name],” “Can I go to the bathroom?”, or “My Chromebook is dead” are great starting points!
- Guess which student is speaking. (By the way, asking a student to repeat is a fair request!)
In these videos, it’s heartwarming to see teachers’ reactions as they recognize—or sometimes amusingly misidentify—the voices of their students. Let’s check their examples. They show that teachers can play this game from our oldest students all the way down to our youngest!
Miss G.’s students:
@lifewithmiss_g This was harder than I thought!
Miss G crushed this challenge! She knew most of her students’ voices right away and answered them confidently. Though some people in her comments are rooting for the students whose names weren’t guessed right away (“Justice for Andrey!”), I think she did a great job!
Mr. Shackleton’s students:
Mr. Shack had so much fun with his students! Watching this video takes me right back to my classroom days. You can tell how much fun his students are having even after he gets a few wrong! As a user commented, “These kids love Mr. Shack!”
Miss Z.’s students:
Miss Z. has the youngest group of students from the Guess the Voice game examples, so prepare to have your heart strings tugged! These adorable young students are so thrilled when their teacher guesses their voice correctly! One user commented, “You know all your babies!” Yes, she does!
Why the Guess the Voice challenge is such a hit
The Guess the Voice challenge captivates classrooms for several reasons. It’s straightforward to set up, doesn’t require any special materials, and offers a quick, fun break amid the bustling end-of-year activities. This game gives teachers a unique chance to demonstrate their attentiveness to students’ individuality, beyond academic performance. For students, it provides an opportunity for meaningful personal interaction with their teachers, enhancing the sense of community and connection during a season that celebrates just that. Most importantly, it promotes an atmosphere of mutual respect and enjoyment, strengthening the teacher-student relationship in a deeply personal way.
Try it in your classroom!
As the chaos ramps up this time of year, why not add a sprinkle of joy and smiles to your classroom with the Guess the Voice challenge? It’s a perfect, easy activity that underscores the spirit of the season—connection, recognition, and fun. Who knew a simple game could enhance the classroom atmosphere so beautifully?