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Using Song in Science Instruction

Ideas for using music and song in science instruction for students with visual impairments

Music is a powerful tool in instruction particularly for students with decreased language skills. I have recently discovered how useful it can be for science instruction with a group of middle school students.  I have played music occasionally as students enter the classroom and as background for years, but only recently have introduced music as a tool for content mastery in a more consistent manner.  

According to a study by Frances Rauscher (2003) music training improved scores in reading, spelling, reading comprehension, math reasoning, numerical operations, and listening tasks.  A statistically significant increase in spatial/temporal skills was observed using standardized testing.   

Music allows students to acquire new information (or review) in a natural manner and presents a part to the whole approach.  It also allows students to gain a connection to new information using a mutimodal approach by listening and singing, movement, and interpreting language.  Additionally, it is an excellent memory tool.  We can all remember songs from childhood! 

Last, but not least, music is fun! Students who are enjoying a lesson will be more engaged and more likely to remember the content.

Hopefully, you are convinced of the power of incorporating music into instruction but how to best do so?  

How can music be used in the science classroom?

To Teach or Reinforce Science Content

 

To Manage Mood in the Classroom

At first, incorporating music into my instruction seemed somewhat uncomfortable, but it has become more natural.  It has definitely been valuable for my students and I plan to use music more often in all of my classes.  If you feel more comfortable using a a recorded or online resource other than your own voice, you will find many options.   I recommend giving it a try!

 

References:

 

Song in Science Instruction Collage

 

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