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How Music Helps English Learners.

During my first six months as a Native English Teacher, I've made a conscious effort to create musical class activities.  I've been crafting lesson plans that incorporate music as a language learning tool.  Here is a list of English topics that are teachable through music. Not all of my ideas have worked so far, but these most definitely have.

Emotions

It was a special day when I implemented this with my Kindergarten class. First, I instructed each student to draw 5 different facial expressions on paper circle cutouts (happy, sad, angry, excited, and calm).  I then played 5 different excerpts on my viola and had the students hold up a paper face after each excerpt. They were matching a facial expression with the music they heard. The results were incredible. Nearly all 14 kids (with the exception of a few pranksters) agreed that the Israeli National Anthem was sad, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star was happy, the Allegro from the Telemann Viola Concerto was exciting, Amazing Grace was calm, and the opening to Beethoven's 5th was angry. A special day indeed. It proved that music is our universal language, but more importantly, it also provoked a group of 6 year olds to overflow the room with English speaking.

Song Lyrics

This one is best for older students who genuinely enjoy listening to music. The exercise includes listening to a song and pausing every few moments to ask questions about the lyrics. At the end of the song, the student is guided through an attempt to tell the story out loud. The song can then be reviewed the following week, with less guidance from the teacher.  It's an ideal way to practice listening, speaking, and storytelling skills. A few songs that have really fit well with this exercise are "Piano Man" by Billy Joel, "100 Years" by Five for Fighting, and "Imagine" by John Lennon

Countries

Many nations around the globe have an individual sound that is connected with their national identity. This can come in the form of a musical genre or sometimes even a single instrument. Traditional jazz is connected with the United States and the Erhu is connected to China. For this exercise, make a playlist of music from around the world and ask the class where they think each song is from, as well as whether or not they like the song. It is a great group activity to review country names and expressions of opinion.

The Alphabet

We all know this one. The famous tune that is associated with the alphabet can be used to review the letters with young learners. I have performed this tune for 4 year olds and they enjoy it, but older students seem to think it's too easy of a task. Nonetheless, the incorporation of rhythm and melody keeps letters fun for kids just starting out.

Focus

I'd like to share one final magical musical moment. It was with my youngest learner, a 2 year old who has the brightest of spirits. It was the first lesson and I decided to start by playing the Alphabet Tune on my viola. As I played, the student's eyes were locked in on me, as if he was studying for his dissertation. When I finished playing, a warm smile took over his face and it was the most genuine expression of appreciation that I've ever received. An instrument was the ingredient that centered the focus of a 2 year old. The sound of music helped this child start his English learning journey.

J.S

Comments

  1. ScottApril 5, 2020 at 6:31 AM

    I've known for a long time the power that music holds, but only as a listener, never as a teacher or player.
    It's clear from your recounting of how your students react that you are reaching them, providing enrichment, and encouraging further growth. Well done, Jake!
    Uncle Scott
    Portland, ME USA

    ReplyDelete

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