Learning English Through Songs

Music and singing aren't just fun, fluffy fillers in a foreign language class. Music is a powerful tool for language learning and retention.
Whether it's classical background music, traditional songs, mnemonic devices, or pop tunes, music motivates students and develops language skills. Here are some sound reasons to hum a little foreign language tune:

Listening to Song Lyrics Improves Comprehension Skills

If you've ever tried to figure out the lyrics to a song on the radio or any other video device, you know that careful listening is required. A popular activity in middle and high school foreign language classes is to listen to a song from the target country and fill in blanks to the lyrics.

Singing Songs Develops Good Pronunciation

Music lends a natural rhythm to words and phrases, helping language learners to use good pronunciation. Melodies and rhymes guide learners to speak in a native cadence. Every time you play a recording of a traditional or popular song, you are exposed to native speakers who model correct pronunciation.

Singing Songs Increases Vocabulary and Speech Patterns

Songs automatically put language into a context. Students will begin to pick up vocabulary and complex expressions they might not otherwise come across. Some songs can be used to teach specific vocabulary, such as singing "Alouette" to learn the parts of the body.

Music Aids Memory

Teacher-created rhymes, chants, and songs can help students memorize grammar and vocabulary. It is easy to use a familiar children's tune and change the words. Consider bringing or creating songs for verb endings, possessive adjectives, days of the week, months of the year, prepositions, weather expressions, and any other chunks of language that must be memorized.
So, why not to have just a try?