Why Do We Sing in ESL?

In the Grade 1 ESL classes, we spend quite a lot of time singing. Why do we sing? What are the benefits to the children? Well, there are a lot of reasons…

• Singing songs really works as children hear whole sentences and absorb grammar and syntax subconsciously. It's an easy way for them to learn and remember words and phrases.

• Children hear vocabulary and phrases in a natural and meaningful context and not in isolated words or sentences.

• Songs are catchy and fun and ESL students are happy hearing them.

• Listening to English songs helps listening skills.

• When singing songs, children hear the natural rhythms and stresses of English and this helps their pronunciation and speaking fluency.

• When using music, actions may be used with any song. This can reach more students by targeting a variety of learning styles in class. Kinesthetic learners will connect to concepts using their bodies to the music while Auditory learners use their hearing strengths to do the same. Visual learners can follow along with the transcription of the song and enhance their learning too!

• Using music can bring in a boost of energy and zest for life that captures the children's attention and motivates them in their quest to learn English.

• With songs, children listen and practice English in a group, joining in when they can without being singled out. A boost in confidence can be gained from this, which percolates through to all learning.

• Learning language through a song helps with memory. Songs can 'get stuck in your head', and this is wonderful for developing language!

Below are some images of children using their Song Books to sing (and read) some familiar songs:

Until next time,
Ms. Gladman