Teach English in Binhaixin Qu [incl. Dagang Qu, Hangu Qu, Tanggu Qu] - Tianjin

Songs in the classroomMusic is popularly used in classrooms as a way to teach a foreign language. One good reason to teach with music and songs is that it creates interest and provides an alternative to a traditional style of learning. Music and songs, for most people, have become a great part of their daily life. The rhythm, the repetition and tunes are great tools for language acquisition because of the variety and interest that it adds to learning. As well, music creates a good atmosphere for the students as a way to relax. Also, music and songs can be viewed as being a form of entertainment instead of work. With this in mind, the student?s desire to learn may increase for entertainment. This style of learning is motivational because music is chosen from ?real? life music in which students can be informed about the culture of the language?s culture. Music and songs, at many times, tell stories about their life and culture which may spark interest for the students. Whether it is relatable to their life or to a friend, daily life components add extra attention and focus. However, daily life songs may also bring along problems like non-standard grammar. Though students can learn that it is a part of the spoken language of the english speaking culture, it may cause confusion. Nevertheless, non-standard english also shows the language of authentic speakers which is a part of the learning process of speaking. Students need to understand that not every one person speaks the same way nor does everyone speak in standard grammar. Thus, it is also good that students learn to hear and understand different speakers of english. Of course there are songs that are appropriate and there are songs that won?t be appropriate because of the language, the grammar or the words choices, but students may use this chance to be introduced to or explore the culture of the language?s way of life. The way to use music and songs to teach a language is by all the activities that it involves. Through songs and music, students will test their ability of comprehension through the listening exercises. By listening and singing along with the singer, the students have the chance to practice their pronunciation. Though singing and conversational speech is different at times, singing is an alternative to pronouncing words. The last part, reading, writing and spelling, allows the students to practice their orthography. With the song playing and the words in from of them, students can engage in the three activities to improve their level of english learning. By having the same songs repeated over again, not only allows the students to become more comfortable in class singing that particular song but help improve their social skills in interacting with the class. Singing in class with each other is a form of social act in which the students are allowed to participate in a group opening. Students wouldn?t have to feel the pressure to speak in front of the class or the pressure to not participate because singing with the class allows them to participate without feeling conscious of their english. With advantages of creating a good atmosphere for the students and providing an alternative learning experience, teaching with music and songs shows great contribution to an english learning class. Along with the combination of various activities, students are given the opportunity to individually assess their work before presenting it to the class. Bibliography Shtakser, Inna. Using Music and Songs in the Foreign Language Classroom. August 2001. http://www.laits.utexas.edu/hebrew/music/music.html Brown, Joy L. Rhymes, Stories and Songs in the ESL Classroom. April 2006. http://iteslj.org/Articles/Brown-Rhymes.html Mol, Hans. Using songs in the english Classroom. April 2009. http://hltmag.co.uk/apr09/less01.htm#c1