Music in the classroom

Why music in class?

Integrating music in the classroom can enhance our students' learning experiences in many different ways. The brain learns in patters and music is delivered in patterns too, that is why it is much easier to remeber the ABC in a song than if it is spoken.

Music helps us to coordinate the rhythm of the heart, our breathing, and our brain waves. It contributes to our body  and mind relaxation opening the door for learning.

Music is a powerful tool that can create a warm and exciting environmet in class and can change negative emotions.

The use of music in my class

We can use music for different purposes and at different moments. Here you have some songs I usually use in my classes.... bear in mind that from time to time it will be advisable to change the songs so as not to bore your students!

Opening ritual: when students enter my class they listen to some uplifting songs to get energized like "Eye of the tiger", then we do some brain gym activities to prepare our brains for learning.   

Concentration time: For reading or other activities that require concentration I play some Baroque music, Chopin, Celtic music, new age, etc. Avoid music with lyrics, the ideal is to play instrumental songs.

Closing ritual: Finally, when the class ends I usually play some stimulating songs again like "We are the champions" "I am a believer" "Let the river run" while they put their things away and get ready to go home.

Remember that your class should be like an electrocardiagram, it should have moments of instruction and moments of relax and you can accompany those moments with the appropriate music and rhythm.

In the following links you will find the access to the playlists I use in class with my students. 

Opening Ritual

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgYpI5KqTNI&list=PL85DE272028F261E3

Concentration Time

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeyQ9Rk9Zvk&list=PLYunnD_nqmi1wDBSm0KZsUStgDLAm0eo2

Closing Ceremony

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaKDOYTZbJg&list=PLYunnD_nqmi2Buqwo0rdIxCihyFKcGGr3