Unit 1, activity 9

[Paqui]

I totally disagree with statement number 1. Most children enjoy singing songs because it is a change from the routine of the class. The use of songs in a class is a great opportunity to practice pupils’ listening skills and pronunciation. They also learn new vocabulary, expressions and grammar structures. Yet, the most important thing about singing songs in class is the fact that it is fun!
As for the second statement, I agree with the first part but not necessarily with the second one. I think classroom routines are important for children, especially when you start the lesson, but I think it’s also important to surprise children with new activities, not just songs.

Finally, early finishers must always have something else to do, otherwise they will probably start messing around. So the answer is yes, teachers must have extra activities ready for those students who finish early.

[Lucia]

I completely disagree with statement number 1 as well. I believe everybody enjoys singing, what you need is the right song / type of music. Through music children learn pronunciation, grammar and of course new vocabulary - plus rhythm. I sometimes use different resources when teaching songs, as to spice things up a bit, such as singing loud or soft, only girls / only boys, adding physical movement (actions), using the karaoke version, and so on, so it is really a matter of finding the appropriate songs for your class group. For my older ones, I sometimes use popular songs they hear on the radio, to make it more motivating for them.

Regarding the second statement, I truly believe that routines are very important and one of the best ways to succeed in every lesson. The younger the children are, the more they need routines. Classroom routines help students feel comfortable and secure in the class. They also make them feel less stressed because they can anticipate and predict what is coming next. The older the children are, the less routines they need, but they appreciate the anticipation as well. Routines also make the lesson goes smoother because everybody knows what is coming next. You always have to adapt the routines to the age group, as well as introduce the WOW! factor once in a while, in order to keep the element of surprise and maintain the students' attention and motivation alive.

As for the third statement, I believe everyone must be kept busy in the class, but this not only achieved with working and producing, but with helping others as well. It all will depend on the situation and the topic worked.

[Admin]

I agree with everything you say here Lucia - as you say: singing is an activity with multiple benefits. Do all the teachers in your school use songs in their language classes, or is this a speciality of yours? I must admit that 13/14-year old boys were a little bit harder to motivate when it came to singing, but certainly little kids loved it! Do you find the same thing?
See you,
Pieter

[Francy]

Where are you from?