Embracing the "Six-Seven" Trend in Education
- Jason Whiskerd
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
If you're an educator who has been inexplicably interrupted by a chorus of "Six-Seven!" (or "Six-Seveeeeen!") when referencing a page number or a maths problem, you are officially in the throes of Gen Alpha's latest, delightfully nonsensical viral trend.
Understanding the "Six-Seven" Phenomenon
This TikTok-fuelled phenomenon is a meaningless, low-stakes phrase that has become a disruptive classroom chant. It’s a classic pedagogical challenge. Yes, it’s harmless, but its persistent, random nature can be irritating to anyone trying to teach the quadratic formula or the causes of the French Revolution.
As our founder Jason Whiskerd points out, "To my colleagues feeling the existential fatigue of being perpetually 'Six-Sevened,' I offer a historical perspective. Cast your mind back and find peace in this one certainty: This, too, shall pass."
A Historical Perspective on Classroom Trends
Every generation must have its absurd, low-effort rallying cry. These phrases bond the in-group and baffle the adults.
The 70s had "Gag me with a spoon."
The 80s had "Totally tubular" and "Word up."
The 90s had "As if!" and "Talk to the hand."
These were the linguistic "disruptions" of a previous era, and we survived them. The "Six-Seven" trend is simply this era's version of teenagers doing their job: being slightly annoying with excellent synchronization.
Strategies for Managing the Trend
Instead of a full ban that turns the trend into forbidden fruit, why not flip the script? Here are some semi-professional suggestions (with a large scoop of tongue-in-cheek):
The "Six-Seven Minute"
Declare the first 67 seconds of class the official "Six-Seven Minute." Allow them to get it out of their system, then banish it until the next day. This way, you acknowledge their enthusiasm while maintaining classroom focus.
The Cringe Counter-Meme
The next time a student shouts it out, simply look them dead in the eye and reply, "That's so Word Up of you." The generational cringe factor is a surprisingly effective, safe, and respectful classroom management tool. It adds a layer of fun while subtly reminding them of the generational gap.
The Linguistic Lesson
Assign a reward or similar to the student who can correctly identify "Six-Seven" as a modern-day shibboleth—a word used to distinguish members of a group. This not only engages students but also encourages them to think critically about language and its evolution.
The Bigger Picture
We are in the business of shaping minds, not policing memes. Let's tackle this with a sense of humour and the knowledge that in six months, it will be replaced by something equally baffling.
Building a Positive Classroom Culture
Creating a positive classroom culture is essential. Embracing trends like "Six-Seven" can foster an environment where students feel heard and understood. When we approach these disruptions with creativity and humour, we can transform potential frustrations into opportunities for connection.
Encouraging Open Dialogue
Encouraging open dialogue about trends can also be beneficial. Allowing students to express their thoughts on these phrases can lead to deeper discussions about language, culture, and communication. It’s a chance for them to articulate their views and for us to guide them through understanding the impact of their words.
Conclusion
Stay strong, educators! The "Six-Seven" trend may seem like a nuisance now, but it’s a fleeting moment in the grand tapestry of education. By approaching it with a light heart and a strategic mindset, we can navigate these waters together.
For more insights on managing classroom trends, check out this article on The Guardian.
