Music To My Ears
I am not an athletic person at all. Running is my exercise of choice, and by running I mean like three consecutive miles max. Growing up music was my sport. I learned to play the piano at a young age and play percussion instruments from middle school all the way through college. Four years of college marching band is not easy and is a huge time commitment, but being involved in music since I was young has been so rewarding.
Research proves that music enhances learning and living. How many times have you been bored to death working on homework or cleaning your room? What's the immediate solution? Turn on music! As soon as you turn on your favorite song the task doesn't seem as bad and is more enjoyable.
If music is capable of changing moods and attitudes so effectively, why is it often turned off at work and school? I believe music is a powerful tool that can be used in the classroom, and now I've done a little research to prove it:
Andrea H. Antepenko writes about the positive impact music has in the September 2008 Volume of The Positive Classroom. She begins by posing a challenge that many educators face- meeting the needs of a diverse class. Cultural diversity is seen as a challenge for teachers, but it is also a unique opportunity. The diversity students bring allows teachers to engage the whole class in creative and unique ways that draws everyone together. Music is an excellent medium to do so. Antepenko recalls that her main focus as an educator "is to create an environment in which every student is involved in meaningful learning. Music helps [her] accomplish that goal" (Antepenko). So what are the biggest benefits or uses of music in the classroom?
1. Music to create a positive environment
Certain music creates a welcoming atmosphere which can encourage even the most reluctant learners to get involved and helps all students feel safe. Depending on the genre, music can provide a calming effect when played in the background. What a great idea for students who feel anxious when learning new subjects! Music can also bring energy when necessary into ordinary routines. Class theme songs and music for transitions makes learning fun and customizes your classroom, helping your students feel a sense of ownership over their class and learning.
In addition, Chris Brewer writes that "Music is a powerful tool for understanding other cultures and bonding with one another" (Music and Learning 1995). Incorporate music from different cultures, especially those represented in your class is a wonderful way to create a safe and welcoming environment for diverse students.
2. Music helps increase student learning
Gardiner's theory of multiple intelligences is a staple in any teacher prep program curriculum. During my time at Auburn we studied the 8 different types of intelligences that Gardiner believed students had, and it's no surprise music is one of them. Incorporating music into learning is a create way to creatively teach content. Cross-curicular or multi-subject lessons create a more engaging learning experience for students. Incorporating what students are learning in class with music can be challenging, but I believe it enhances the student's learning experience. Music snipits mixed in with core subjects helps keep classes engaged. "Music can also create a highly focused learning state in which vocabulary and reading material is absorbed at a great rate. When information is put to rhythm and rhyme these musical elements will provide a hook for recall" (Brewer 1995).
Here's how I've incorporated music into some of my teaching!
During my undergrad experiences we took an elementary music class. As a part of the class we developed a four lesson unit to be taught one a week for four weeks at a local elementary school without a music program. Each lesson included a music standard, a core subject, and another related fine art. The third grade team lessons centered around a specific theme: Music Around the World. Together we designed four lessons that incorporated music from different countries to teach. This experience was very valuable to both me and the students we taught. For these students who didn't have music on a weekly basis, bringing in music to teach lessons was a thrill! Even the quietest students would engage with the class whenever the music was involved.
To view the lesson plans we wrote and see pictures from our activities check out my e-portolio!
I also incorporated music in my teaching this past spring during my internship. The McGraw Hill Wonders Curriculum focuses on an essential question in reading every week. One week the essential question was "What sounds do you hear? How are they made?" Of course this was a perfect opportunity to break out my UKULELE! Yes you read that right, I can play the ukulele! This was another fun portion of my elementary music course!
I brought in the ukulele and engaged the class in a discussion about the ukulele and its different parts. I asked them how they thought it makes sound? (strings/vibrations) Then I played a few cords to show them how it makes sound when you strum. Last I played them a song and we all sang together. In honor of their recent Wizard of Oz themed first grade musical we sang somewhere over the rainbow:
How do YOU use music in your classroom? I'd love to here some of your ideas!
