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A new social media trend, known as the six seven phenomenon, has emerged in classrooms across Australia, capturing the attention of both students and teachers. While the phrase appears numerical, it has little to do with arithmetic. Instead, it has ignited curiosity about its origins and meaning, prompting educators to address its presence in the learning environment.
The term six seven derives from a song titled Doot Doot (6 7) by the artist Skrilla. The song features a repetitive lyric that resonates with users of platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Additionally, it has become associated with American basketball player LaMelo Ball, whose height of 6 feet 7 inches contributes to the trend’s appeal.
Decoding the meaning behind six seven
As the trend permeates youth culture, understanding its significance presents a challenge. The phrase can be interpreted in various ways: it may signify a lackluster response, describe someone of notable height, or serve as a comedic element without a clear punchline.
Ultimately, it embodies a sense of ambiguity.
Generational language shifts
For many parents, the rise of this trend may feel frustrating. However, teachers are at the forefront of addressing its impact in educational settings. Some educators have adopted a proactive approach, seeking to incorporate this catchy phrase into their classroom dynamics rather than resist it.
For instance, Leah, a parent of a year 5 student, shared a surprising development: “My daughter mentioned that her teachers have adapted to the trend. Instead of resisting it, they use it to manage classroom chatter. For example, her math teacher counts to five and pauses, prompting the students to enthusiastically chime in with ‘6…7,’ leading to laughter.”
Teachers’ diverse responses to the trend
In Sydney’s eastern suburbs, a teacher emphasized the importance of maintaining a light-hearted classroom atmosphere. “By being playful with the students, we can help mitigate the trend’s disruptive effects,” she explained. Incorporating the six seven theme into lessons has proven effective.
For example, she might say, “Let’s turn to pages 6 and 7,” while playfully gesturing, allowing students to share a laugh before returning to their studies.
Creative classroom challenges
One innovative idea she implemented was a writing assignment scheduled for the last day of school. “In just 6-7 minutes, students were tasked with explaining the definition of six seven, its origins, and its usage—strictly in 67 words. It was a fun way to engage them while addressing the trend,” she shared.
Conversely, another educator from New South Wales initially sought to embrace the trend but ultimately decided to impose a ban. “At first, I thought I could incorporate it into my math lessons, jokingly asking, ‘What’s the answer here? Oh my God, it’s 67!’ But it quickly became tiresome and unproductive, leading me to restrict its use altogether,” she admitted.
She expressed concerns about students becoming increasingly disengaged, experiencing what she termed “brain rot.” “They struggle to articulate what it means or why they use it,” she reflected, adding, “That’s my two cents. Well, make it 67 cents!”
Navigating changing times in education
The emergence of the six seven trend serves as a reminder of the generational shifts in language and culture. As social media evolves, so too does the communication style of younger generations, often leaving parents and educators bewildered.
The term six seven derives from a song titled Doot Doot (6 7) by the artist Skrilla. The song features a repetitive lyric that resonates with users of platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Additionally, it has become associated with American basketball player LaMelo Ball, whose height of 6 feet 7 inches contributes to the trend’s appeal.0
