Do you know why music lessons in elementary school are so unimaginably important?
I never imagined that music would have such a significant impact on children. It plays a crucial role in their learning and development in various ways. Ignoring this influence would be a missed opportunity, so let’s explore it in more detail. Before we get to the eight reasons to use music in the classroom.
For a long time, I have believed that music can enhance studying. When chosen thoughtfully, it can help improve focus and create a positive mood, making absorbing new information more manageable and enjoyable.
You won't believe your ears! We've created a PLAYLIST to help you learn. Feel free to give it a try!
Music and language development
Listening to music assists children in processing auditory cues and distinguishing between various sound types. Additionally, it positively impacts reading skills and vocabulary building. The authors suggest that listening to music has a beneficial influence and active participation in making music further enhances children’s language development.
Furthermore, as Mark Mieras extensively discussed, music plays a role in brain development. Unfortunately, despite its significance and the growing understanding of its benefits, less teaching time is allocated to music education. This trend is regrettable, as music has a profound positive impact. American researchers even argue that a lack of music education at a young age could negatively affect academic performance later in life.
What did classical composers do for children’s intelligence?
In the past, it was often claimed that listening to composers like Mozart and Schubert could enhance children’s intelligence, leading some parents to play these compositions for their unborn children. Although it has been casually suggested that Mozart improved intelligence, no solid evidence supports claims about specific composers—only short-term benefits can be observed immediately after listening.
What does research and brain activity tell us?
Brain activity shows a strong connection between music and language processing. The thalamus, a significant nucleus in the brain, channels words and text to the left hemisphere and spoken language to the right. Young children’s auditory systems require stimulation for effective development and listening learning. The more effectively we train students, the better the thalamus functions, indicating that music is a form of auditory training.
Research indicates that children who receive musical training tend to listen better than those who do not. This training helps them manage noise and extract meaningful information, even amidst background sounds. The authors also discuss how music can assist children with language difficulties and note that children with dyslexia process sounds differently. Interestingly, it has been observed that composers often have a stronger connection between the brain’s two hemispheres; musical training appears to enhance integration between these brain areas. This effect becomes even more pronounced when a child learns to play a musical instrument.
TIP
What can humming children do for your class? When your students enter the classroom humming a song, it’s a positive sign. You can use this moment to kick off the lesson. For instance, you might encourage the class to sing the song together if they all know it. If they don’t, you can quickly look up the lyrics (for example, on www.azlyrics.com) or find a karaoke version to play.
Music media for teachers
At present, Fortekigi Media has these music productions for education:
There are eight reasons to use music in the classroom.
Music possesses a unique ability to unite people, stimulate creativity, and elevate emotions. In an educational setting, it serves as more than just background noise; it can be a powerful tool that enhances learning, fosters a positive environment, and supports students’ emotional and cognitive growth. Here are eight important reasons to incorporate music into the classroom:
- Enhances Learning and Memory: Research indicates that music can improve memory and learning. Songs and rhythms activate multiple brain areas, helping students retain information more effectively. For example, mnemonic devices set to melodies make it easier for students to memorize facts, vocabulary, or formulas. Studies also show that background music enhances focus and information retention during specific tasks.
- Encourages Creativity and Expression: Music opens doors to creativity, allowing students to express themselves uniquely. Students learn to think outside the box through singing, playing instruments, or composing their pieces. Moreover, music promotes problem-solving and innovation, essential skills in today’s world.
- Supports Emotional Well-being: Music profoundly impacts emotions. It can calm anxious minds, uplift spirits, and provide comfort during stressful times. Playing soothing tunes during quiet work or transitions can create a peaceful atmosphere, while upbeat songs can energize students for more active lessons. Additionally, music aids students in processing and articulating their emotions, contributing to greater emotional intelligence.
- Builds a Sense of Community: Incorporating music into classroom activities—such as group singing, clapping games, or collaborative music projects—fosters teamwork and social connections. These shared experiences help build a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Improves Focus and Discipline: Learning music often requires practice, patience, and perseverance. When students engage in musical activities, they develop focus and discipline, skills that translate to other areas of their education. Structured musical activities also help students channel their energy productively.
- Cultural Appreciation and Diversity: Music introduces students to various cultures and traditions, broadening their understanding of the world. Students learn to appreciate diversity and respect cultural differences by exploring different genres and styles.
- Boosts Confidence and Motivation: Performing or creating music can significantly increase students’ confidence. Whether mastering an instrument, singing in front of peers, or composing a piece, they experience a sense of accomplishment that motivates them to take on new challenges.
- Supports Special Needs and Inclusive Education: Music offers therapeutic benefits for students with special needs. It enhances communication, social interaction, and motor skills. As a universal language, music is accessible to all, bridging gaps in abilities and creating an inclusive classroom experience.
Practical Ways to Integrate Music into the Classroom
- Morning Music Rituals: Begin the day with a calming or energizing song to establish a positive tone.
- Educational Songs: Utilize songs to teach various subjects, such as math, science, or history.
- Brain Breaks: Introduce short musical breaks to help re-energize students during long lessons.
- Creative Projects: Encourage students to compose songs or create musical interpretations related to their lessons.
- Instrument Exploration: Provide opportunities for students to play instruments, promoting hands-on learning experiences.
Conclusion
Music in the classroom is not just an extra feature; it is an essential part of a well-rounded education. It nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, helping students excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Educators can help students reach their full potential by incorporating music into everyday learning and creating a classroom environment filled with harmony and joy.
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