Teaching English as a Foreign Language: Seven Reasons Why It’s Important to Use Music
Use of music in teaching English as a foreign language
Of the many tools and resources available to both EFL or ESL teachers and foreign language learners, music is one of the best, yet most underused. Many texts and volumes of information are on the market to help both teachers and students in the process of applying the use of music in their classrooms and other language learning environments.
Seven important reasons to use music
Here are seven important reasons why using music in the EFL or ESL classroom is a great idea for both EFL teachers and learners of English or other foreign languages.
o The students like
Motivating foreign language learners is a constant concern of teachers around the world, in a wide range of teaching and learning conditions and environments. One aspect that practically any language student, of any age or profile, likes is music. Students often talk quickly about their favorite music and music artists like Atomic Kitten (pictured above).
o Teachers of English as a foreign language like
The EFL or ESL teacher has a preference for music as well as their students. So whatever the teacher likes, he can convey his enthusiasm to his language students.
o Music is usually free
A frequent problem in English and other foreign language classes is finances. Costs and budgets are a sore point in almost all school districts, language institutes, and teaching/learning situations. However, music is often freely available in many genres, regardless of where you live or teach.
o There is a wide variety of music available
A quick Internet search for “free music,” “music broadcasts,” or “online radio stations” will turn up dozens, if not dozens, or even hundreds of websites where music can be easily purchased.
o Music positively affects the brain
Long-standing academic and intellectual studies have amply demonstrated that music has a profound impact and affects the brain. This effect can be positive or negative depending on its type. With astute guidance, you can be sure to use music to a positive effect on your students of English or other foreign languages.
o Music can enhance learning
If you are looking for a way to enhance your EFL students’ experience with language acquisition, music is one aspect that is quickly and easily implemented. Classical music such as works by Mozart, Beethoven, Vivaldi or Chopin and easy-to-listen musical genres have been proven to enhance learning. Especially in the areas of language and mathematics.
o Music motivates and interests students
Ask your students what they do in their free time and one of their answers will probably include listening to their favorite type of music. If you want to quickly “liven up” a late class session, you can use music to do it quickly.