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“The Use of Songs in the Language Classroom in the Language Schools of the Benemérita Universidad Autonóma de Puebla”
A Thesis submitted to the School of Languages
For the Degree of
Licenciatura en la Enseñanza de Lenguas Extranjeras
by Raúl García Báez
Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
December 1999
The Use of Songs in the Language Classroom in the Language Schools of the Benemerita Universidad Autonoma de Puebla
This thesis has been read by the members of thethesis committee of
Raúl García Báez
and is considered worthy of approval in partial fulfillmentof the degree of
LICENCIATURA EN LA ENSEÑANZA DELENGUAS EXTRANJERAS
________________________Lic. Marsha Way
Thesis Committee Chairperson
_______________________ ______________________Lic. Michael Witten Roberto Criollo, M. A.
In MemoriamGabriela Yanes Gómez.
Life is too shortOur desire of fightingIt’s endless.
I wanna dedicate this thesis to my mother, Argelia Báez, to my father Alfredo García and to my family for believing in me.
Thanx to the teachers: Concepción Báez and Ildefonso Ramírez.
To my unbelievable friends: Teresa Reyes and Roberto Criollo, who always trusted in me. To all my friends; “the gang” that make this world go on !
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
“...that the purpose of lifewas not the maintenance
of well-being, but someintensification and refining
of consciousness, someenlargement of knowledge.”
Aldous Huxley.
Thanks to all my teachers who taught me the importance of learning and applying the knowledge, and also, to all the educational institutions I’ve been through.
In the same way, to the teachers who answered the research’s questionnaire and interview, to Roberto Criollo, Daniel Marcoux, Marsha Way and Michael Witten for their help.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Preliminary Pages iDedication iiAcknowledgments iii
CHAPTER ONE: Introduction1.1 Introduction 11.2 Problem 21.3 Rationale 21.4 General Objectives 31.5 Research Questions 31.6 Research Strategies 3
CHAPTER TWO: Literature Review2.1 Songs 52.2 Comprehension in Foreign Language Learning 82.3 The Importance of Listening Comprehension in Language 92.4 Comprehensible Input in Listening Comprehension 102.5 The Development of Listening Skills 102.6 Reading in a Foreign Language 112.7 Choosing a Song 12
CHAPTER THREE: Methodology3.1 Subjects 13 3.1.1. Licenciatura en Lenguas Modernas (LEMO) 13 3.1.1.1. Teachers 13 3.1.1.2. Target Population 13 3.1.1.3. Coordinator 14 3.1.2. Centro de Lenguas (CELE) 14 3.1.2.1. Teachers 14 3.1.2.2. Target Population 14 3.1.2.3. Coordinator 14 3.1.3. Tronco Común Universitario (TCU) 14 3.1.3.1. Teachers 15 3.1.3.2. Target Population 15 3.1.3.3. Coordinator 15
3.2 Instrument 153.2.1. Questionnaire for teachers 153.2.2. Interview of coordinators of language schools 163.3 Procedure 163.3.1. Questionnaires 163.3.2. Interview 16
CHAPTER FOUR: Analysis of the Results
4.1 Results from the questionnaire 17
CHAPTER FIVE: Conclusions and recommendations5.1. Conclusions 245.2. Limitations of the Study 255.3. Steps to work with songs 255.4. Possible Problems 265.5. Recommendations 275.6. Suggestions 295.7. Listening 295.8. Speaking 295.9. Reading 295.10. Writing 295.11 Directions for further investigation 30
BIBLIOGRAPHY
APPENDIX 1
31
1. Questionnaire
APPENDIX 21. Interview
APPENDIX 31. Classification of songs in relation to their grammar application2. Songs with a topic for discussion3. Singers who present a wide variety of songs with topics for discussion4. Other activities suggested5. Web Sites to find lyrics
APPENDIX 4Songs Examples4.1. Music genres4.1.1. Twenty Questions4.2. Working with Homonyms and Commonly Confused Words4.2.1.The one4.3. Music, Comprehension, Grammar and Video Clips4.3.1.Kiss the Rain4.4. Singing in Class4.4.1. Barbie Girl4.5. Prepositions and Changes4.5.2. I’ll Be There4.6. Discussion in Class4.6.1. Why4.6.2. Article from the Newspaper4.7. Love songs
TABLES AND FIGURES
Table 1: Types of songs and their description, proposed by Hubbard 7Figure 1: Bottom-up approach, adapted from Nunan 8Figure 2: Top-down approach, adapted from Nunan 9Figure 3: Level of English taught by participating teachers 17Figure 4: Frequency of use of songs 18Figure 5: Kinds of songs used in class 19Figure 6: Criteria to choose a song 20Figure 7: Use of songs with a specific goal 20Figure 8: Skills developed 21Figures 9a and 9b: Activities developed in class 22
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
“It’s like ten thousand spoons, when all you need is a knife”.
Alanis Morissette.
1.1 Introduction to the problem
Using songs seems to be a common activity in EFL classrooms. Teachers enjoy using songs, as this seems to provide them with a “break” in their every day teaching. Students also enjoy learning with songs for a variety of reasons—it is fun, it improves
their language skills, and they can finally know and understand what some of their favorite songs say.
Also, songs can be used according to the objectives of an English program.
When students are learning English for different reasons, with different objectives,
songs will be used differently in the classroom. This is the case with the language
schools at the Benemérita Universidad Autonoma de Puebla- the Licenciatura en
Lenguas Modernas (LEMO), the Centro de Lenguas (CELE), and the foreign language
courses at Tronco Común Universitario (TCU). The students at these schools have
different reasons for learning English. In the LEMO, the students must be prepared to
work with English in a communicative way while also having extensive knowledge in
grammar and vocabulary since they will be teachers. In the CELE, students of all ages
receive general English courses to help them reinforce what they are learning in school
or to give them a better background in language and culture.
The students at TCU are learning English in order to be able to work with
textbooks and materials written in English that they will need for their major and also
for situations they might encounter in their major where they need to communicate in
English. Each one of the language schools at the BUAP has a distinct purpose and song
plays a role in each one. This thesis will look at those roles.
1.2 Problem
In most EFL classrooms, songs may not be exploited adequately according to the
learning objective in the classroom because for many teachers, a song in the classroom
is a synonym of “fun”. They only have their students work with songs that they really
want to know the lyrics to, and both teachers and students can take a break from the
regular classroom routine. This use of songs may be problematic, and it would be
necessary to investigate how the teachers in the BUAP use songs in the classroom.
Songs may not be exploited adequately according to the learning objective in the
classroom. In other words, there may not be a systematic way to use songs. An optimal
use of songs would involve adapting them to specific purposes and working them out to
extended activities, and not only to fill a space in the class.
1.3 Rationale
A song can be a powerful learning tool in the classroom. Used properly, it can
help students learn and practice all language skills and sub-skills. It is important that
teachers know how to properly exploit a song according to the objectives of the course
and the specific purposes of the students learning English in order to turn wasted time in
the classroom into wisely used time, focusing on different aspects of language. The
lyrics of the song can focus on parts of speech, grammar tenses, idioms or slang. The
students can discuss topics brought up in the song. While singing the song or while
listening to it, one can concentrate on pronunciation. Essays or songs can be written so
that the writing side of the skills can be focused on. In other words, the use of songs and
their exploitation need to be looked at more closely for the teacher to take advantage of
all the different activities, which can be used to teach the different skills.
This is especially important at the language schools of the BUAP since each
school has specific objectives and purposes for students learning English. These
objectives have been briefly presented in the introduction and will be presented again in
detail in Chapter 3 along with the information about the subjects.
1.4 General Objectives:
1) To carry out an investigation looking at the present use of songs in the language
classrooms of the LEMO, CELE and TCU.
2) To suggest ways songs can be used more effectively according to the learning
objectives and context.
1.5 Research Questions
1) How are songs presently used by teachers in their classrooms in the language schools
of the BUAP: LEMO, CELE and TCU?
2) What is the profile of the students who are learning English in these schools?
3) What are the most effective ways to use songs?
4) What are some advantages and disadvantages of using songs to teach English?
5) How can the different skills be taught by the use of songs?
1.6 Research Strategies
In Chapter One, the problem and its rationale establish the reasoning behind this
investigation. The objectives will be stated so that this work presents a clear purpose.
The research questions and strategies will provide the reader with an idea about the
focus of the investigation.
In Chapter Two, bibliographical material about the use of songs in the language
classroom and the teaching of language skills will be analyzed and compiled. This will
set a background for the research and back up the researchers use of different activities
to use with songs in the teaching of the language.
In Chapter Three, the methodology of the research presents the subjects, the
instrument and the procedure used in answering the questionnaires (Using Songs in the
Language Classroom) and in the administration of the interview made to coordinators of
the BUAP languages schools. These questionnaires are important for the researcher to
know how songs are being used currently in the language classroom. The interviews
will allow the profile of the students to be built up to a certain point.
In Chapter Four, the results of the questionnaire will be analyzed and discussed,
looking at the present situation and setting a background for the need for information
about more effective ways to use songs in teaching languages according to the different
contexts.
Finally, in Chapter Five, the conclusions and closing statements concerning this
topic will be stated. Following the Bibliography, the Appendix will include the
questionnaire and the interview questions used in this research. The research will
conclude with a classification and suggestions of songs to be applied to specific parts of
the speech, a classification of topics for discussion, singers, activities, examples, and
Web Sites and a list of tables used.
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW “There are words that amuse
And the ones that abuse”
François Guy/Francine Raymond
2.1 Songs
Songs have been used for educational purposes since the beginning of time. History and traditions have been passed down from generation to generation in illiterate
societies through song. In various school subjects and cultures, songs have been invented and used as mneumonic devices for learning and remembering. Here we will
look at the use of songs as applied in the language-teaching context.Byrne (1991) states that songs provide good listening practice since the students
are concerned with what the song says. The song is combined with tasks that help the
learner to improve language skills. Authors such as Celce- Murcia and Hilles (1988),
Gasser and Waldman (1979) and Richards (1969) among others, agree that songs have
many benefits as they are used in the language classroom. Songs can be adapted to a
variety of situations. Hubbard et al. (1983) state as one argument for using songs in the
language classroom that “songs can increase motivation to learn the language as
students, especially weaker ones, feel a real sense of achievement when they have been
able to learn a song” (92). Dubin (1974) points out that, “songs can be utilized as
presentation contexts, as reinforcement material, as vehicles through which to teach all
language skills, and as a medium through which to present some of the most important
cultural themes which pervade modern life.” (Cited in a paper presented at the TESOL
Convention, Denver, CO, on March 7, 1974). Using the context is very necessary when
working with grammar and vocabulary, as grammar and vocabulary are not used in
isolation but rather in a context. Songs provide meaningful practice of the structures,
and they are the best resource for contextualization since they are usually based on
cultural situations.
Context is the key to using language. Authentic language is used in context and
songs give context to language. Songs are culturally rich, full of possibilities to give
context in a language class as well as giving the students a look at the English-speaking
culture. Songs can tell the students about the history of people (“The Legend of Billy
the Kid” or “Davy Crockett), the history of a country (the History Rock series) or the
culture of a foreign land (“Cats in the Cradle”, for example).
Using songs in the language classroom has many benefits. One of the greatest
benefits, besides the obvious and also very important teaching of grammar, vocabulary
and listening, is the idea that students can learn about the people and the culture where
the songs are from. “Culturally based assumptions regulate communication and
determine the underlying meanings of the spoken and written word.” (Abrate 1992, p.
168).
Another benefit, as stated by Hubbard et al (1983) is the opportunity the students
have for cooperation. This makes the students come together and not be so inhibited,
thus helping to make learning more effective.
Halquist (cited in Celce-Murcia and Hilles 1988), in an unpublished handbook
of activities for adult ESL students, states that songs, along with other grammar
activities, can be effective in five different ways by:
1) adding variety as well as enjoyment to language learning (all skills). Using
songs as an alternate technique helps to boost students´ motivation and lets them
have fun while learning.
2) presenting authentic language, as well as introducing students to various
dialects. Students have the opportunity to hear and work with language that is
actually used and that may be very different from “textbook English”.
3) allowing students to practice a previously studied, contrasting structure along
with a new structure. Combination of practice of structures allows for review and
reinforcement.
4) providing an opportunity to apply language skills to real-life situations by
extending the pattern in the song.
5) helping to develop cultural awareness, both of the present and the past.
(p. 117).
Hubbard et al (1983, p. 93) give a table listing different types of songs and their
description. Depending on the purpose for which the song will be used, the teacher can
choose a song that can be used effectively. Table 1 shows the types of songs and the
description proposed by Hubbard et al. (1983). p. 93.
Table 1: Songs and Their Descriptions According to Hubbard et al.
Type of song Description
Special occasion songs Songs which are sung in English-speaking countries only on certain occasions or at certain times of the year. Teaching this sort of song to students may give them an insight into English culture.
Songs and gamesSongs, usually children’s songs, which are sung to accompany certain games.
Action songs Songs which require actions or some sort of mime to be performed while singing them. Ordinary songs can be made more meaningful by devising a series of actions to accompany them.
Songs where one structure or a lot of lexis is repeated over and over again.
Specially written songs for teaching can be included here.
Songs which tell a story.
Looking at the different types of songs available for use in the language
classroom, one can see the opportunity the language teacher has to show and teach
students through the use of authentic material. In this way, the students learn about the
culture of the country as well as the language.
2.2 Comprehension in foreign language learning
“Listening comprehension is an act of information processing in which the
listener is involved in two-way communication, one-way communication and / or self-
dialogue communication” (Morley in Celce-Murcia 1991, p. 90).
Listening comprehension is something that we do not even realize that we do
until we are in an unfamiliar environment. One listens his whole life- to television, to
radio or to other people. However, we take it for granted that we understand until we
are in a situation like that of a foreign language where proficiency is limited. Anderson
and Lynch (1993) describe some of the processes that one takes for granted when
communicating in his or her first language, such as “dividing an unfamiliar speaker’s
utterances into words, identifying them, and at the same time interpreting what the
speaker meant and then preparing an appropriate replay” (p. 3). These common tasks in
the first language become difficult tasks in the foreign language.
Looking at the two dominant views of listening, the “bottom-up view” and the
“top-down view”, it can be seen that the bottom-up view shows that “listening is a
process of decoding the sounds that one hears in a linear fashion, from the smallest
meaningful units (or phonemes) to complete texts” (Nunan 1999, p. 200). This
definition states that these phonemic units need to be decoded and then put together to
form phrases. The phrases linked together form utterances. The utterances linked
together form whole texts. Figure 1 shows the bottom-up approach (adapted from
Nunan 1991, p.64).
Figure 1: The Bottom-up Approach According to Nunan
Bottom-up approach
Recording Every sound Phonemes Blending Pronunciation
Meaning
discriminated
The top-down view of listening states “the listener actively constructs (or, more accurately,
reconstructs) the original meaning of the speaker using incoming sounds as clues” (Nunan 1999, p. 201).
In this view, the listeners´ knowledge of the context and the situation of which the listening is taking
place plays a very important role in the listening process. Figure 2 shows the Top-down approach
(adapted from Nunan 1991, p. 65).
Figure 2 shows the Top-down approach (adapted from Nunan, 1991 p.65).
Top-down approach
Past experience, language Selective aspects Meaning Sound, pronunciation
Intuitions and expectations. of listening (recording).
2.3 The importance of listening comprehension in language
Experts have different views about the role played by listening comprehension.
Krashen (1981 in Anderson and Lynch 1993) “has claimed that listening plays a central-
and possibly predominant part- in the whole process of language learning” (p. 33).
“…Comprehension may be at the heart of the language acquisition process:
perhaps we acquire by understanding language that is `a little beyond´ our current level
of competence. This is done with the aid of extra-linguistic context and our knowledge
of the world” (p. 107).
Listening is the first skill that we develop as babies. Children usually have a
“silent period” where they are not expected to produce language yet since listening
precedes speaking. Children can understand more than they can speak. This is also the
premise of the Total Physical Response method that was developed by James Asher. In
order for the child to acquire the language, he or she must receive comprehensible input.
“Listening is used far more than any other single language skill in normal daily
life.” (Morley 1991, p. 82). Listening is quite an important skill and cannot be
overlooked in foreign language teaching. It is possible for one to develop speaking and
be incompetent in listening. It was not until 1969 that the experts began to look more
closely at listening.
Most teachers call listening a “passive” skill, along with reading. However,
these skills are very dynamic and are much more than passive. A person who is
listening has a purpose for the listening task, whether inside or outside of the language
classroom. The students listen for their purpose and are very actively trying to extract
the information that they need while possibly disposing of the rest. Those experts who
take such a perspective on listening “fail to account for the interpretation listeners make
as they “hear” the spoken text according to their own purposes for listening, their
expectations, and their own store of background knowledge” (p. 85).
2.4 Comprehensible input in listening comprehension
Input, as defined by Anderson and Lynch (1988), is “all incoming speech and
other signals that listeners hear” (34). Comprehensible input is necessary when learning
a foreign language. Krashen states that even though the input must be comprehensible,
it also must always be a little beyond the levels of the students´ present competence.
Krashen´s theory of i+1 (i= input) explains how one acquires language. Imagine going
to a foreign country. If one read and heard input that was only within his or her present
level of competence, he or she might stay within that level, but not be challenged to
move beyond it. Input that is too high above the student’s competence will only
frustrate him and cause him to raise his affective filter. Krashen´s input hypothesis
states that “acquisition takes place as a result of the learner having understood input that
is a little beyond the current level of his competence (i+1 level)” (Ellis 1985, p. 262).
2.5 Development of listening skills
As in the development of most knowledge or skills, grading of activities needs to
be carefully planned. Anderson and Lynch (1993) agree that learners must progress
from less complex tasks to more complex tasks. Their success on the less complex
tasks will motivate them to move on to the more complex ones. The listener needs to
have simple listening activities at the beginning in order to be successful at these
activities and to gain confidence and also to develop adequate listening skills. A
listener who has been given very complex tasks and incomprehensible input is likely to
be frustrated and “encourage passive and unsuccessful listening habits…”
Also, (Welford 1968) states that since listening is a complex psychomotor skill,
it is best practiced in clusters and not in small units. With songs, this statement relates
to what Celce-Murcia and Hilles (1988) say about contextualization being important for
meaningful practice. Language is best learned in context and in larger groups since that
is actually how language is used.
2.6 Reading in a foreign language
Reading is an important part of one’s daily life that, like other language skills is
taken for granted by literate people in the native language. The purpose of reading is to
fulfill one’s immediate needs and also to give pleasure.
“In today’s ESL / EFL classrooms, academic subject content is frequently the
context through which the target language is studied” (Dubin and Bycina in Celce-
Murcia 1991, p. 195). Again, context is stressed since that is what one must concentrate
on – what the context is. What will be studied? Where will the language be studied?
Where and how will language be used? What is the context of the situation where this
will be used?
Reading activities can be adapted as part of the song. Exercises such as reading
for the main idea, reading for specific information, understanding colloquial uses,
idioms or unusual syntax are exercises, which can be practiced while working with
songs. “…Combine with biographical or current events materials relevant to the singer
or content to offer valuable reading practice.” (Celce- Murcia 1991, p. 176).
“…The cultural dimension to reading is central in second and foreign language
classrooms” (Parry 1987; Steffensen and Joag-Dev. 1984; Dubin and Bycina in Celce-
Murcia 1991, p. 199). Culture is a main part of language and using that culture can
make reading activites richer. When using songs, the music and / or the lyrics should
reflect the culture of the native speakers of the language.
2.7 Choosing a song
Many songs can be useful in the language classroom; however, there are certain
criteria that help to make some songs much richer in content and useful for the
objectives of the lesson than others. Some specific aspects to look at when choosing a
song are:
1. that it illustrate the use of past tenses.2. that it review numerous irregular verbs.3. that it show many instances of adjective agreement.4. that it give clear examples of pronunciation.5. that it provide a variety of vocabulary relating to common situations such as:
vacation, school, meals, etc.6. that it contain many idioms and puns.7. that it discuss family or social interaction.8. that it refer to natural surroundings or environmental concerns.9. that it draw clearly defined characters.10. that it present historical figures or events.11. that it show a well-defined poetic form.12. that it be especially moving or entertaining. (Celce-Murcia and Hille 1988, p. 169).
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY “Don’t
worry about things. Every little thing is gonna be alright"
Bob Marley
3.1 Subjects
3.1.1 Licenciatura en Lenguas Modernas (LEMO)
The teachers from the LEMO are actually teacher trainers; they are training
future language teachers. In their context, teaching English to their students is more
than just simple comprehension or production. It is a more in depth study of the
language so the students can teach it some day.
3.1.1.1 Teachers
The teachers from the LEMO were given questionnaires to answer. These are
teachers who are teaching or who have taught English. Teachers in all levels (1-8) were
taken into consideration for the questionnaire. Fourteen teachers were given
questionnaires.
3.1.1.2 Target Population
The objective of this research is to know how the teachers use songs with their
students. In this case, the students of the LEMO are studying their bachelor’s degree in
order to become language teachers. The range of the students´ age is from 18 to 25
years old. They have English classes nine hours per week with one hour of laboratory.
This is during eight semesters. The objective of the course is for students to use the
four skills acquired to work later as an English teacher and to be able to write a thesis in
English. More generally, the objective is for the students to get 550 points on the Test
of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The TOEFL exam is a standardized
English exam used to measure foreign and second language proficiency. A score of 500
points is a proficiency that is considered passable by most institutions.
3.1.1.3 Coordinator
The coordinator of the LEMO was asked the above information about the
students´ profile. The list of questions for the interview was used (see Appendix 3). The
present coordinator has been in this position for almost 2 years.
3.1.2. Centro de Lenguas (CELE)
3.1.2.1 Teachers
A total of 18 teachers from the CELE were asked to answer the questionnaire.
The teachers chosen for this investigation were those who teach the regular courses, not
the seasonal courses.
3.1.2.2. Target Population
The students in the normal courses at the CELE have a range of 18-25 years old.
They take nine hours of English per week. There are three levels (Basic, Intermediate
and Advanced) with two sub-levels in each (1 and 2). The objective of the program is
to develop the four skills to succeed in communication. The students expect the
acquisition of a foreign language and the abilities necessary for them to function using
the different language skills in their future field of work.
3.1.2.3 Secretario Académico
The Secretario Académico of the School of Languages was interviewed in order
to get the profile of the students. He was asked questions from the interview format,
(see Appendix 3).
3.1.3 Tronco Común Universitario (TCU)
The students enrolled in Tronco Comun Universitario are students from all the
different majors of the BUAP. The language courses in TCU have been included in the
curriculum so the BUAP students would be better prepared to work in their profession.
This may be through reading comprehension in order to understand professional
journals, newspapers, etc.
3.1.3.1 Teachers
Thirty-eight teachers from TCU were asked to complete the questionnaire. This
school has many more teachers than the other schools.
3.1.3.2. Target Population
In the credit system, all BUAP students are required to take 4 semesters of a
foreign language. The students who take English classes in TCU are BUAP students
from all majors in the university. The students´ ages range between 18 and 21, since the
foreign language courses must be taken within the first four semesters (basic level) in
order to pass on to the next level (formative level). They have 2 English courses per
week for two hours, making up a total of 4 hours a week. The objective of the program
is to train the students to develop the 4 skills, acquiring “survival” English. The
students´ expectations of the course are to read and write texts and to communicate in
the spoken language.
3.1.3.3 Coordinator
The coordinator of the Foreign Languages at TCU was asked the same
information as the coordinators from the LEMO and the CELE. Regarding the purposes
for which the students need English and their expected proficiency level upon finishing.
3.2 Instrument
3.2.1 Questionnaire for teachers
The instrument used in the investigation was a questionnaire, which was applied
to find out how songs are being used, and in what situations they are being used. The
questionnaire consists of 10 questions. (See Appendix 1) The questions ask how often
they use songs, about their criteria for choosing songs, the skills and activities
developed when using songs, and the results of the activities in the classroom and their
opinions about using songs.
3.2.2 Interview for coordinators of language schools
An interview was applied to the heads of each of the schools. This interview
was used in order to find out more about the program, the objectives, the purposes, and
to obtain a profile of the students. A copy of the interview questions can be found in
Appendix 3.
3.3 Procedure
Two instruments were used, the questionnaires and the interview. The following are descriptions of procedure.
3.3.1 Questionnaires
With the questionnaire having been designed, it was then distributed to teachers
in the different schools. The teachers were asked to take about 10 minutes to answer the
questionnaire while the researcher either waited or agreed to come back later to collect
the questionnaire. The results were then analyzed and compiled so that the researcher
could have a clearer view of the actual use of songs in the foreign language classroom.
3.3.2 Interview
The researcher made an appointment for an interview with each of the heads of
the schools. At the interview, the questions were asked about how the students would
have to use language upon completion of their course of studies and the answers were
written down.
CHAPTER FOUR: DISCUSSION OF THE RESULTS “Sometimes the snow comes down in June.
Sometimes the sun goes round the moon.” Waldman/Lind/Galdston.
The results of the questionnaire showed some very useful information to the
researcher about the use of songs in the classroom. The questionnaire (See Appendix 1)
was designed to allow the researcher to see the different purposes and ways of using
songs in the language schools of the BUAP- LEMO, CELE, and TCU.
In the first question, it can be seen that more teachers in the LEMO and the
CELE who teach higher levels of English were asked to answer the questionnaire as part
of this investigation. The teachers who answered the questionnaire in TCU teach more
basic levels. Only 25% and 38% of teachers in the LEMO and CELE respectively teach
basic while 63% teach basic in TCU. Among the teachers who answered the
questionnaire, 25% from the LEMO, 20% from the CELE and 0% from TCU teach
advanced. This may have an effect on the frequency and the purposes for which songs
are used. Figure 3 shows the level of English by questioned teachers.
Figure 3: Level of English taught by participating teachers.
Basic Low-interm Intermediate High-interm AdvancedLEMO 25% 7% 14% 22% 25%CELE 38% 6% 6% 27% 20%TCU 63% 32% 5% 0% 0%
In the second question, it can be seen how often the teachers use songs. It is surprising to see that the
teachers have almost the same averages. Songs are not used in extreme (very frequently), but normally
between once a week and once a month. In TCU, 21% of the teachers use songs only once a semester
while in the CELE, 28% of the teachers almost never use songs. This is mostly because of the time factor
the teachers have for presenting the information listed as part of the curriculum in one semester. Other
teachers do not think that songs are the greatest didactic instrument and do not use them often. Figure 4
presents the frequency of the use of songs.
Figure 4: Frequency of use of songs.
2-3 times/ week Once/ weekOnce/ two
weeks Once/ monthOnce/
semesterLEMO 7% 22% 22% 42% 0%CELE 0% 18% 28% 26% 0%TCU 0% 0% 46% 27% 21%
In question 3, the most popular songs are pop, followed by slow songs, then by rock. The
teachers who filled out the questionnaire never use children’s songs and only 10% of the teachers in the
CELE use traditional songs. In the “other” category, 30% of the teachers in TCU, 5% in the LEMO and
2% in the CELE use whatever songs the students want to use. This suggests that those teachers use songs
more for fun rather that for specific purposes. Figure 5 shows the kinds of songs most popular in the
EFL class.
Figure 5: Kinds of songs most used in class.
Pop Rock Slow children’s TraditionalLEMO 30% 20% 25% 0% 0%CELE 42% 21% 23% 0% 10%TCU 32% 16% 22% 0% 0%
What criteria do the teachers use for choosing the songs? There is a lot of variation in the
answers. Mostly, teachers base their decisions on the students´ taste, their own taste, the skills to be
taught, and the grammar that can be studied through the song. Figure 6 presents the criteria to choose a
song.
Figure 6: Criteria to choose a song.
Ss level Ss taste T tasteSkills to be
taught Lyrics Grammar Vocab Rhythm singabilityLEMO 17% 10% 12% 15% 10% 30% 15% 2% 2%CELE 15% 10% 5% 12% 12% 15% 12% 8% 9%TCU 21% 13% 10% 17% 7% 27% 2% 1% 2%
Do teachers always use songs with a specific goal in mind? A significant proportion of the
teachers say that they usually use songs with a specific goal. 75% of the teachers in the LEMO say they
do, 52% of the CELE answered affirmatively while 74% of those in TCU say that they do. Figure 7
shows the use of songs with a specific goal.
Figure 7: Use of songs with a specific goal
Yes No UsuallyLEMO 75% 13% 12%CELE 52% 11% 37%TCU 74% 1% 25%
When the teachers were asked what skills they focus on when using songs, the answers were
almost the same. There is an average of 25% between the 3 schools, meaning that the teachers claim that
they work evenly with all four skills. Figure 8 presents the skills developed in class.
Figure 8: Skills developed
Listening Speaking Reading WritingLEMO 27% 23% 25% 25%CELE 31% 28% 22% 19%TCU 25% 25% 25% 25%
It was interesting to see what activities the teachers develop when working with songs. The
activities that got the highest answers were cloze activities (the lyrics of the song with spaces where the
student has to fill in missing words); grammar exercises and having the students sing the song. This goes
against what was previously answered by the teachers about working the four skills with songs. Many of
them focus only on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, sometimes ignoring the other skills. Figures
9a and 9b, in the next page, illustrate these results.
Figure 9a: Activities developed in class.
Cloze Grammar Ss sing Vocab discussionDistinguish
sounds IdiomsLEMO 15% 22% 32% 20% 10% 5% 0%CELE 13% 12% 8% 9% 8% 7% 9%TCU 18% 17% 23% 15% 4% 3% 0%
Figure 9b: Activities developed in class.
Dictation Writing Describing Listen. sp. info.Putting in
orderQuestions &
answersLEMO 0% 2% 0% 15% 2% 5%CELE 5% 3% 4% 10% 6% 4%TCU 0% 5% 0% 2% 0% 13%
All teachers answered that songs are motivating for students and that they
provide good language practice. They enjoy using songs since the students really seem
to like them and they participate actively.
In conclusion, it seemed that the teachers contradicted themselves at times when
answering the questionnaire. As teachers, one is taught the importance of covering all
the skills; however, it was seen through this research that grammar and vocabulary are
focused on more. Furthermore, even though the teachers in the three language schools
have different objectives for their students, they tend to use songs very similarly. Songs
have been found to be very motivating tools in the language classroom, and they can be
used in a variety of ways.
CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSIONS “In a sky full of people, only some want to fly, isn’t that crazy?”
Seal/G. Sigsworth.
5.1 Conclusions
This research showed that the teachers in all three language schools of the BUAP use songs in
almost the same way, even though their students have different objectives and purposes for the language.
Most teachers do have ideas about the exploitation of songs in the language classroom. However, by
providing them with clear guidelines, they could improve their teaching practices through the use of
songs according to their students’ specific needs. Not only can songs help in the teaching of language
skills, but they can also help to teach culture when properly exploited. It is up to the teacher to take the
time and initiative to prepare a song for use in his or her classroom.
The results obtained showed that more teachers in the LEMO and the CELE teach higher levels
of English whereas the teachers who answered the questionnaire in TCU teach more basic levels. Only
25% and 38% of teachers in the LEMO and CELE respectively teach basic while 63% teach basic in
TCU. Among the teachers who answered the questionnaire, 25% from the LEMO, 20% from the CELE
and 0% from TCU teach advanced. It was also determined how often the teachers use songs, and it was
surprising to see that the teachers use songs regularly. Songs are not used very frequently, but normally
between once a week and once a month. In the TCU, 21% of the teachers use songs only once a semester
while in the CELE, 28% of the teachers almost never use songs.
Regarding the kind of music used, the most popular songs were pop, followed by slow songs,
and then rock. The teachers who filled out the questionnaire never use children’s songs and only 10% of
the teachers in the CELE use traditional songs. In the “other” category, 30% of the teachers in TCU, 5%
in the LEMO and 2% in the CELE use whatever songs the students want to use. This suggests that those
teachers use songs more for fun rather that for specific purposes. On the other hand, it was seen that
teachers base their selection of songs mostly on the students’ taste, their own taste, the skills to be taught,
and the grammar that can be studied through the song.
The results also showed that teachers use songs with a specific goal, and that they work evenly
with all four skills. Finally, the activities developed with songs were cloze activities, grammar exercises,
and having the students sing the song.
5.2 Limitations of the study
The present study was based on survey research, eliciting information by means of a
questionnaire. The data collected, then, was about the perceptions and opinions of teachers about the use
of songs in the English classroom. These perceptions, however, may not reflect reality. The limitations
of survey research are that sometimes the respondents do not provide true answers to the questions. In
this way, the results of the present research may be considered as subject to some level of inaccuracy.
However, it is expected that the information and the results discussed here will shed some light on the
uses of songs in the different language schools of the BUAP. Some suggestions for using songs, based on
the results of this research are provided below.
5.3 Steps to work with songs
1. Choose a song, following the criteria suggested in chapter two.2. Adapt the song to the objectives to be worked in class.3. Look for visual material to support these objectives and activities.4. Prepare a warm up before presenting the song.5. Introduce the song’s topic, by creating a link to establish the context, in clear and
specific form. (Boiron 1998).6. Explain new vocabulary by using key words.7. Play the song once, to be familiarized with it.8. Develop the activities designed.9. Play the song one more time or as many as necessary.10. Use complementary activities supported by extended exercises.
5.4 Possible Problems:
1. Some pieces of language can change the general idea of the song. For this, it is better
to introduce the main point of the song. (Nunan 1991).
2. If the activities designed for the song are not working as planned, it is better
to have an alternative activity but keeping the same objective.
3. For the next time that problems appear, the teacher can readapt the activities
or change them.
4. The teacher must consider the criteria to choose a song and the steps to use
songs. 5. Avoid that the students be distracted in other parts of the song that are not part
the objective. Establish the "route" (Boiron 1998).
6. Explaining all the vocabulary is a waste of time, only key words are required.
7. The pupils are not always in the mood for certain songs, but that doesn't mean
that the song selected failed.
8. Rap and heavy rock songs are not recommended because of the fast speed of
the singer's voice or the loudness sound of musical instruments. All this could
confuse the learners. If the level is advanced and the students are able to listen
these songs, the teacher can use this music.
9. The selection of songs needs to be conscious.
10.The copies taken from the song have to be clear.
11. Suggestions by the pupils must be considered and discussed.
12. Students are not required to understand the full meaning of the song, just the
general idea.
13.It is useful to record the song twice or even three times, in order to avoid wasting time in rewinding. Nowadays, CD players are more effective to
repeat the whole song or just a specific part of it. 14. Songs are complements for the class. They reinforce pronunciation, listening and comprehension, but this doesn’t mean that learning a foreign language will be done only with songs.
15. Wrong application of the internal factors could make listening fail. These factors are: interest, motivation, attentiveness and knowledge of the topic, (Waston and Smeltzer 1984).
16. Likewise, textual factors (organization of the information, familiarity of the topic, explicitness and sufficiency of the information, the type of referring expressions used, and descriptions of static or dynamic relationship) have to be considered, (Anderson and Lynch 1988).
17. When the song is presented out of context, this becomes “deauthenticated”, (Nunan 1999).
5.5 Recommendations:
1. Choose current or timeless songs that reflect true culture and standard
spoken English.
2. The songs could be complemented with video clips (when available). The visual
material reinforces and supports the lyrics from the song.
3. The introduction of the song must be specific and clear.
4. Create a link (Boiron 1998). This means, engage the students into the song’s topic.
This way, they can relate the topic to their reality. This makes the student want to
listen to the songs and therefore, they personalize the song.
5. Many resources can be used to find song lyrics. One idea of the teachers from this
investigation was to have the students themselves write the lyrics to the song and
make the presentation in the classroom, conducting the activity. Another resource is
the internet where one can find lyrics to the most current songs and timeless classics.
If the internet is not available, some CDs or tapes include the song lyrics. Moreover,
there are magazines specialized in lyrics and singers.
6. If you have the lyrics to a song without music, don’t be afraid to invent music or to
ask students to perform. Part of the fun can be having groups come up with the most
creative rhythm.
7. A brief biography of the singer is useful to support the song’s background.
8. The students are able to apply what they know (top-down), and relate it to
what they listen to in the song (bottom-up), (Nunan 1999).
9. “The context in which language is used and the purposes to which it is put will
play a large part in shaping the language”. (Nunan 1991).
10. Very long songs are not recommended, an average of time of the song could be around five minutes.
11. The whole song can be played in order to be familiarized with it.
Then, in the second playing, it could be played in parts.
12. Motivation is quite important for this kind of activity.
13. Lyrics are real and living language. So, they present a lot of contractions and
several pronunciations.
14. “Appropriate listening materials which are calibrated to the interests and
abilities of the students are needed for systematic growth in listening skills”.
(Ross 1992, p.192-193).
15. The learners can have a certain degree of control over the content of the song. 16. After finishing with the activities, the new vocabulary could be applied by
using it in for the production of sentences.
17. Identifying the song’s mood is useful to encourage sensibility in the pupils.
5.6 Suggestions
The most obvious suggestion, but the most forgotten one by the teachers, is to use the
songs to practice various skills, not just to look at the subskills.
5.7 Listening: Obviously, listening to the song for any other purpose is good practice.
The teacher can have the student listen for specific information or listen for the main
idea. Songs can help improve listening by teachers having students distinguish sounds
and extract more common, but rarely studied reductions, such as “gonna” and “wanna”,
etc.
5.8 Speaking: Besides the obvious reason of having the students sing the song to
practice pronunciation, have the students discuss a topic that comes up in the song. If
there are various characters in the song, the students can act out the song. The teacher’s
imagination is the limit. The students can make a telephone call to one of the
characters. If there is dialogue, the student can answer the singer, etc.
5.9 Reading: After having read over the song and one understands it, the students can:
Read historical information about an event that comes up in the song.
Read biographical information about the singer or about historical characters.
Research a historical event and write a song or a dialogue related to it.
Work with writing activities and use them for reading practice.
5.10 Writing: There are so many activities the teacher can use for writing that the
teacher may never use them all. Some of them include:
Write about characters, or write letters to them.
Take dictation of the song.
Brainstorm and write a song of their own or another version of it.
Write about a historical event related to the song or that could be related to the song.
5.11 Directions for further investigation
The previous suggestions are part of a very small list of ideas from the
researcher of this project. Ideas for using songs in the language classroom are endless
and the teacher can use them for much more than just fun. This investigation just
focuses on the present use of songs by the Language schools of the BUAP. In the same
way, it can be continued with another research like using specific songs, singers or
video clips in the EFL classroom.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Anderson, A. and T. Lynch. (1993). Listening. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Boiron, M. (1998) “Approches Pédagogiques de la Chanson Contemporaine”: Presented in XI Encuentro de formación continua y de centros de autoaprendizaje. Puebla: BUAP.
Bygate, M. (1993). Speaking. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Celce-Murcia, M. (1991). Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language. Boston: Heinle 1& Heinle.
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Appendix 1
Questionnaire
Using Songs in the Language Classroom
You may check as many answers as apply on this questionnaire.
Name: (optional)__________________________________________________
Name of school: ___________________________________________________
1. Level of English presently teaching:
__basic
__low-intermediate
__intermediate
__high-intermediate
__advanced
2. How often do you use songs in teaching your English class?
__2-3 times a week
__once a week
__once every two weeks
__once a month
__once a semester
__almost never
3. What kinds of songs do you usually use?
__pop
__rock
__slow
__children’s
__traditional
__other (specify) ____________________
4. What criteria do you use when choosing a song?
__students´ level __grammar
__students´ taste __vocabulary
__your taste __rhythm
__skills to be taught __sing ability
__clearness of lyrics __other _______________________
5. Do you use songs according to a specific purpose or goal?
__yes
__no
__usually
6. What skills do you develop?
__listening __reading
__speaking __writing
7. Within those skills, what activities do you develop?
__cloze exercises __students sing
__grammar exercises __vocabulary
__discussions about topic __writing about song
__listening for specific information __describing
__distinguishing sounds __putting in correct order
__idioms __question and answer
__dictation __other
8. What are students´ reactions when using songs?
9. What results do you get from using songs? ____________________________
________________________________________________________________
10. In general, what is your opinion about using songs in the language classroom?
APPENDIX 2
Interview with coordinators of the language schools
1. Learners Profile
a. What is the average age of the students?b. What is the students´ major?
1. Are they studying at university level yet or are they high school level or below?2. Are they adult learners who are working besides taking classes?
c. Are the groups homogeneous heterogeneous (according to age, major, etc.)
2. Frequency
a. How many hours a week do the learners attend English classes?
3. Objective
a. What is the goal for them to learn English?b. What are the objectives of the program or course?c. What results are obtained? (Do the results match the objectives?)
Appendix 3
1. Classification of songs in relation to their grammar application.
Nowadays, some EFL materials offer a variety of songs recommended for academicals purposes. On the other hand, commercial music is an option that is renewed everyday and offers a lot of possibilities to exploit songs. Therefore the teacher must select an adequate song, in relation to an objective and level. Suggestions by the students also should to be considered. The following list of options and songs was carefully selected from many lyrics and different times, and by checking their topics and by classifying them into categories. In the case of grammar, the selection considers the most basic grammar tenses and other elements of language. For this, the songs that only include one grammar tense that is repeated several times were not considered. Instead of this, the research focused on the same tense but with several verbs, e.g.: (“we were walking, we were talking, we were laughing…the moon was rising…the night was falling,” etc). Songs like the previous mentioned present more forms and examples. And also, some songs designed for teaching EFL/ESL were included to complete this list. Finally, a list of singers and songs that offer several themes to be discussed in class is provided. Timeless songs were not considered, however, they can be adapted to the following classification suggested.
Songs are rich in grammatical structures; they also are real language. Thus, because of repetition they engage students easily. The following list gives a classification of songs, which can be applied to specific grammatical points.
Simple present1. “Alright”, Supergrass.2. “Across the lines”, Tracy Chapman.3. “June afternoon”, Roxette.4. “Hand in my pocket”, Alanis Morissette.5. “You learn”, Alanis Morissette.6. “Love hurts”, Nazareth.7. “That’s what love is”, Amy Grant.
Present continuous1. “Don't dream, it's over”, Crowded House.2. “Lemon tree”, Fool’s Garden.3. “June afternoon”, Roxette.4. “Shopping at the K-mart”, (Finch) *5. “Missing you”, John Waite.
Simple past1. “Stars”, Simply Red.2. “Norwegian Wood” (This bird has flown), The Beatles.3. “Anything can happen”, Was (Not Was).4. “La isla bonita”, Madonna.
5. “Hazard”, Richard Marx.
Past continuous1. “La luna”, Belinda Carlisle.
Present perfect1. “What have they done to the world? (Bryam Abbs & Nola York). *2. “Nothing compares to you”, Sinèad O’Connor.3. “True blue”, Madonna.
Present perfect continuous1. “Waiting for a girl like you”, Foreigner.
Future1. “Love will lead you back”, Taylor Dayne.2. “Runaway”, Janet Jackson.3. “Crying in the rain”, AHA.4. “Rush, rush”, Paula Abdul.5. “I’ll be there”, The Escape Club.
Question structures1. “Where does my hear beat now?” Céline Dion.2. “Why is it so hard?” Madonna.3. “Kiss the rain”, Billie Myers.4. “Eternal flame”, Bangles.5. “Drive”, The Cars.
Imperatives.
1. “I'll stand by you”, Pretenders.2. “Don't speak”, No Doubt.3. “The hokey pokey”. *
Conditionals and modals1. “Blame it on the rain”, Milli Vanilli.2. “Could have been”, Tiffany.3. “Lend a hand”. * 4. “More than words”, Extreme.5. “One of us”, Joan Osborne6. “You scratch my back”, I’ll scratch yours. *7. “Change”, Lisa Stansfield.8. “Hat full of stars”, Cyndi Lauper.
Tenses review1. “You don't understand me”, Roxette.2. “All by myself”, Céline Dion.3. “True blue”, Madonna.4. “Where do broken hearts go?” Whitney Houston.5. “Alone”, Heart.6. “Hat full of stars”, Cyndi Lauper.
7. “Piano man”, Billie Joel.
Pronouns and possessives1. “My heart will go on”, Céline Dion.2. “Mystical experience”, Boys Zone.3. “Paradise”, Sade.4. “And I love her”, The Beatles.
Nouns, adjectives and adverbs
1. “I don't wanna talk about it”, Rod Stewart.2. “Creep”, Radiohead.3. “I'll be there”, The Escape Club.4. “True colors”, Cyndi Lauper.5. “The one”, Elton John.6. “Alone”, Heart.7. “Forever young”, Rod Stewart.8. “Hand in my pocket”, Alanis Morissette.
Prepositions1. “I'll be there”, The Escape Club.2. “Against all odds” (Take a look at me now), Phil Collins.3. “Two steps behind”, Def Leppard.4. “Tom’s dinner”, Suzanne Vega. 5. “Kiss of life”, Sade.6. “Hotel California”, The Eagles.
Idioms, opposites and vocabulary1. “Fast car”, Tracy Chapman.2. “Sing a song of opposites”. *3. “Opposites attract”, Paula Abdul.4. “Clothes line”. *5. “Give me the alphabet”. *6. “Magical colors”. *7. “Playful Saturday”. *8. “Splish, splash” (parts of the body). *9. “The leader” (parts of the body). *10.“The haunted house” (there is/are/was/were). *11. “The twelve months of the year”. *12. “Eat you broccoli” (food). *13. “The hokey pokey”. *
2. Songs with a topic for discussion
Contemporary themes1. “Everybody wants to rule the world”, Tears for Fears.2. “Man in the mirror”, Michael Jackson.3. “We are the world”, USA for Africa.4. “Wind of change”, Scorpions.5. “Subcity”, Tracy Chapman.6. “Dirty cash”, Adventures of Steve V.7. “Forever young”, Alpha Ville.8. “Money for nothing”, Dire Straits.
Nature1. “Chorus”, Erasure.2. “Don't kill the world”, Boney M.3. “Heal the world”, Michael Jackson.4. “Promise of a new day”, Paula Abdul.
Drugs1. “Toy soldier”, Martika.2. “Hotel California”, The Eagles.3. “Street soldiers”, Hammer.4. “Games”, New Kids On The Block.5. “Black Balloon”, Go Go Dolls.
Saying good bye (death and leaving).
1. “Praying for the dying”, Seal.2. “Father and son”, Cat Stevens.3. “Bohemian Rhapsody”, Queen.4. “Wild world”, Cat Stevens.5. “The power of goodbye”, Madonna.6. “Tears in heaven”, Erick Clapton.
Family relations1. “Cats in the cradle”, Cat Stevens.2. “Keep it together”, Madonna.3. “Ode to my family”, The Cranberries.4. “Oh father”, Madonna.5. “Papa don't preach”, Madonna.6. “You’re no son of mine”, Genesis.
Education and cultural awareness1. “Another brick in the wall”, Pink Floyd.2. “Fast car”, Tracy Chapman.3. “Material world”, Tracy Chapman.4. “Get up, stand up”, Bob Marley.5. “11mph”, Was (Not Was).
6. “What up dog?” Was (Not Was).7. “I love rock ‘n roll”, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
Racism1. “Somewhere in America”, Was (Not Was).2. “Across the lines”, Tracy Chapman.3. “Born to fight”, Tracy Chapman.4. “Get up stand up”, Bob Marley.5. “Working for the fat man”, The Escape Club.6. “Hazard”, Richard Marx.7. “Rhythm nation”, Janet Jackson.
War and peace1. “Imagine”, John Lennon.2. “Happy Xmas” (War is over), John Lennon.3. “War is stupid”, Culture Club.4. “Zombie”, The Cranberries.5. “Goodbye Joey Rae”, The Escape Club.
Food for thought and reflection1. “Crazy”, Seal.2. “Ironic”, Alanis Morissette.3. “One of us”, Joan Osborne.4. “Return to yourself”, Enigma.5. “Sweet dreams”, Eurhythmics.6. “What's up”, 4 Non Blondes.7. “Piano man”, Billie Joel.8. “Why?” Tracy Chapman.9. “Dust in the wind”, Kansas.
Motivating songs1. “Alright”, Supergrass.2. “Let your soul be your pilot”, Sting.3. “Life is a flower”, Ace of Base.4. “Here comes the sun”, The Beatles.5. “Ray of light”, Madonna.6. “Heaven is a place on Earth”, Belinda Carlisle.7. “Three little birds”, Bob Marley.8. “Don’t worry be happy”, Bobby McFerrin.
Love1. “All I wanna do it’s make love to you”, Heart.2. “For my lover”, Tracy Chapman.3. “Sacrifice”, Elton John.4. “Seasons change”, Exposé.5. “Tie a yellow ribbon round the old oak tree”, Tony Orlando & Dawn.
Loneliness1. “Lemon tree”, Fool’s Garden.2. “Somebody to love”, Queen.3. “True blue”, Madonna.4. “I still got the blues”, Gary Moore.5. “I remember you”, Skid Row.6. “Time after time”, Cyndi Lauper.
Friendship1. “Hmm bop”, Hanson.2. “Say you, say me”, Lionel Richie.3. “When I’m 64”, The Beatles.4. “With a little help from my friends”, The Beatles.5. “You got a friend”, Carole Kim.6. “We are the champions”, Queen.
Escapade1. “All I wanna do”, Sheryl Crow.2. “Hotel California”, The Eagles.3. “Land of dreaming”, Masterboy.4. “Over the rainbow”. (Arlen-Harburg). *5. “Escapade”, Janet Jackson.6. “Octopus garden”, The Beatles.
Poverty1. “Another day in paradise”, Phil Collins.2. “Gypsy woman”, Crystal Waters.3. “Talkin’ bout a revolution”, Tracy Chapman.4. “Working for the fat man”, The Escape Club.5. “Why?” Tracy Chapman.6. “Dirty cash”, Adventures of Steve V.
Religion1. “One of us”, Joan Osborne.2. “Love thy will be done”, Martika.3. “Like a prayer”, Madonna.4. “From a distance”, Bettle Midler.5. “My sweet lord”, George Harrison.6. “Losing my religion”, R.E.M.
Being a woman1. “You oughta know”, Alanis Morissette.2. “All that you have is your soul”, Tracy Chapman.3. “She works hard for the money”, Donna Summer.4. “Gloria”, Laura Branigan.5. “Uninvited”, Alanis Morissette.6. “Torn”, Natalie Imbruglia.7. “Pearls”, Sade.
8. “That don’t impress me much”, Shania Twain.
* These songs are available in EFL/ESL materials.
3. Singers who present a wide variety of songs with topics for discussion.
1. Alanis Morissette.2. Billie Joel.3. Bob Marley.4. Cat Stevens.5. John Lennon.6. Madonna.7. Sting.8. The Beatles.9. Tracy Chapman.10. Was (Not Was).
More classifications and options could be added, in the same way these songs could be substituted by the new songs, which are related to the same topic. The activities developed from songs emphasize prediction, reflection and learning. In the same way, songs offer a variety of expressions and idioms, which show the language in context as it is spoken in real life. “Authentic spoken language presents a challenge for the learner to attempt to understand language as native speakers actually use it”, Rost (1994: 141-142). Similar like this, to exposing pupils to authentic texts it is benefical because “nonauthentic listening texts differ in certain ways from authentic texts”, Nunan (1999: 212). The first ones used to include linguistic functions that are more applied in writing rather than in spoken language. For this reason, songs like any other sources of authentic material facilitate learning, listening and comprehension.
4. Other activities suggested
As it has been seen, the possibilities for exploiting songs are unlimited. However, here is a list of possible activities for EFL classes.
1. Cloze exercises.2. Mixed up song. (A puzzle song).3. As a quizz.4. Just for singing and having fun. (To review pronunciation).5. For discussion.6. Background music.7. For translation.8. Discrimination of sounds.9. Find out vocabulary.10.“Recreating a song” (Rewriting a song).11.To review a grammar element.12.Comprehension and writing exercises.13.For dictation.14.A combination of these activities.
5. Web sites to find lyrics.
www.summer.com.brwww.seas.upenn.eduwww.lyrics.ch-http://barstop.com/wwwboard/Musicians/messages/6.html--http://www.komando.com/other/kool_sites/music/19980807_17...--http://207.200.73.135/Arts/Music/Bands_and_Artists/M/Mood...--http://www.interagora.gr/candbot/lyrics.htm--http://netsurf.citylink.de/users/gpavicic/music/lyrics_e....--http://www.home.sk/www/search/lyrics.htm--http://ambrosia-net.virtualave.net/lyrics.html--http://whiplash.net/letras.html--http://mud.ncte.org/lists/ncte-talk/nov98/msg00382.html--http://ww.mp3now.com/html/lyrics.html--http://www.top3.net/fleetwood_mac/--http://www.deadinv.com/resource/RNETmusic.htm--http://www.swissonline.ch/de/alpha/i.shtml
Appendix 4ExamplesIn the English class the songs could be used in several forms with different objectives. Here are just some possibilities.
1. Music genres.Teaching grammar can be easily while the learners have fun. The following activities are designed to complement some grammar exercises
Level: Basic.Time: 15-16 Min.Age: 18-24 years.School: Universidad Realística.
Background informationIn this university the students have been working with the well-known book
"Interchange". The following activity was applied to introduce the unit 4 of the book mentioned. This part of the book shows some common rhythms: pop, rock, country,
gospel, jazz, classical music and blues, as the most sold in the USA.
General objectiveTo introduce different musical genres the learners should identify that by listening to
some popular songs.
Specific objectiveStudents will be able to make questions, to express agreement and disagreement and use object pronouns.
Warm upTo ask questions like: Do you like music? -Yes, I do.
Do you love rock? -No, I don't. MaterialA tape recorder and a tape with some samples of well-known songs. Each one of 10 seconds in average. Activities: The tape is played, this one includes these genres:
Genre 1. New Age 2. Rock & Roll 3. Pop
4.Opera 5. Classical. 6. Jazz. 7. Rap 8.Techno 9. Ranchera 10.Tango 11.Banda 12.Norteña 13. Heavy metal 14. Hard Rock 15. Romantic/Ballad 16. Dance/Disco 17. Reggae 18. Waltz19. Hip Hop20. Country 21. Can Can
Then, as the samples are played, the teacher asks: What kind of music is it?The pupil’s answer: it's pop; it's classical, etc.Later, the activity continues with a conversation from the textbook:
Conversation: Like and dislikes
Listen and practice.
Liz: Do you like jazz Tom?Tom: No, I don't like it very much. Do you?Liz: It’s OK. What kind of music do you like?Tom: Well, I like rock a lot.Liz: What's your favorite group?Tom: U2. How about you? Do you like them?Liz: No, I don't. I can't stand them!(Richards 1990: 23). And finally, a cloze exercise is answered to practice yes/no questions with “do” and the adequate use of object pronouns:
Complete these conversations. Then practice them.
A: Do you............... disco music?B: Yes, I really like..…..How about you?A: I......….... like it very much.
A: Who's your favorite actress?B: Jane Fonda. I really like.. …....A: Jane Fonda! I can't stand!A: …... you.....…... Anne Murray?B: No, I ….…. like …....... very much. But I like Whitney Houston. Do you?A: Yes, I …...… She's terrific!(Richards 1990:23).
Option 1The songs presented can be changed in accordance with the students’ age and time. Pictures that show singers or musical genres can support this activity.
Option 2
IcebreakerIt can be developed as an "icebreaker”.
Option 3
Countries and nationalitiesThis exercise can present nationalities and countries, for example, to play the samples of the songs, and ask about the country where the song is from.
ObservationsIt really works in class to motivate and engage the pupils. In the last example, the activity was planned in accordance with the course test. The students paid attention, and were involved in the topic and exercises. They could recognize many of the songs and almost all the classifications. Grammar exercises were answered with few or no mistakes.
Music genres is a topic that can be exploited in several ways. Not only does it present rhythms, but also, it is culture and fun.
Option 4Complementary activity
Twenty questions
Group work. Now you play the game. Take turns. One student thinks of a famous person. Then group can ask up to twenty questions like these.The answers are "Yes" or "No.”
Is it a man? (Or) Is it woman?Does he live in the United States?Is she American?Is he a singer?Does she wear glasses?Is he in his 30s?
When you think you know the person's name, say:
Is he.... (name)? (or) Is she .... (name)?(Richards 1990, p. 31).
2. Working with homonyms and commonly confused words. Homophone and homonym sounds can be worked out in two forms. Many times, sounds confuse students. Because of this; the following activity combines a reading and comprehension exercise with a song.
Level: Intermediate or advanced.Age: Young learners or adults.Time: 40-60 min.
Warm up To provide the students a list of homonyms and commonly confused words.
advice recommendationadvise to recommendare plural form of to bebuy to purchaseby next tofair light-skinned; just, honestfare money for transportation; foodhour sixty minutesour plural form of myto towardtoo also; indicates degree (too much)two number following one
ExerciseSelect the appropriate homonym from each group in parentheses:
According to (Council, Counsel) on Aging, the North American population over 85 is growing faster (than, then) any other segment of society. The (council, counsel) (cites, sites) statistics indicating that elderly people who have access (to, too, two) good health care (are, our) likely to outlive (their, there, they’re) parents. If elderly parents grow (to, too two) (weak, week) to care for themselves, responsibility for them (maybe, may be) (passed, past) to children (know, no) longer young themselves. (Formally, Formerly) (use to, used to) (their, there) parents making independent decisions, adult children must now learn to (accept, except) that parents may need (assistance, assistants) with some decisions. Aging parents must be treated with courtesy and handled with (patience, patients). Frequent (personal, personnel) visits help to keep parents’ (moral, morale) high or to (raise, raze) low spirits. In (principal, principle), adult children (all ready, already) (know, no) how to behave with aging parents; they must sometimes be prepared to reverse their (respectful, respective) roles.
(Troyca et al. 1996, p. 424-429).
Main objective Learners will be able to discriminate homophone and homonym sounds, by making sense of the context provided.
Second objectiveTo adequate the nouns, adjectives or verbs that better fit to the content of the song.
Warm up to the songThe song “The One” will be introduced. The song is about the moment when a couple finds out love.Before listening to the song, the teacher will ask the pupils about their opinions and personal experiences. Then, if there are strange words, they will be explained, however the vocabulary is not difficult.
Activities for the songThe pupils listen to the song and select the best option. The song can be played as many times as required. Later, they compare their answers in pairs. Then, each one reads a line from the lyrics and the whole group compares results. Afterwards, they discuss with the teacher, why some words are not possible. To conclude, the students give opinions about the song, what they liked or not, and why.
ObservationA brief biography of the singer could attach the song.
Option 2It can be used as a test/quiz.
Option 3It can be adapted for a phonetics exercise.
Option 4The use of the video clip shows the scene.
The OneBy Elton John.
Select the adequate word:
I so/saw you dancing out the ocean/notionRunning fast/last along the land/sand A spirit born of ear/earth and murder/water/walletFire flying from your hands/heads.
In the instant that love someoneIn the record/second that the hammer hits/beats/kicksReality runs up your spine/pine/smileAnd the pieces finally be/bit/fit.
And all I ever needed was the one
Like freedom feels/fields where wild/wire horses runThe stars/starts collide like you and INo shadows block/lock the son/sunYou’re all I’ve ever neededBaby you’re the one.
There are carebands/caravans we followDrunken/broken nights in far/dark hotelsWhen changes/chances breathe between the aliens/silenceWhere sex/six and love no longer gel/yell.
For each man/men in his time is cane/CainUntil he walks along the dish/beachAnd sees his future in the wallet/waterA long host/lost heart within his rich/reach.
3. Music, comprehension, grammar and video clips.
Reading and comprehension exercises used to be based on articles, short stories, etc. This activity suggests listening to a song and checking comprehension. And also, to review some grammar structures to make questions and conversations. On the other hand, by using a video clip, culture can be presented and compared.
Song: Kiss the rain, by Billie Myers.Level: Low-intermediate or high intermediate.Age: Young learners or adults.Time: Variable (Depending on extended exercises).
General objectiveTo check listening and comprehension, review some adjectives and nouns and to talk about the content.
Specific objective Students will be able to make questions in simple present and be able to make a phone conversation.
Warm upTo ask the students how do they talk in the phone and what questions they make.
ActivitiesFirstly, to introduce the context, so the pupils can make more sense of the lyrics, (Nunan 1999). The song is about a couple that broke up; one day she calls her old boyfriend.Then, the learners follow the sequence/situation till find the end. Some words will be explained (dawn, fall over, tempted, and so on.)
The activity continues with a writing, reading and comprehension exercise:
I. Choose the best sentence that answers the following question:
What is the intention of the girl?1. To hurt herself.2. To get back her boy.3. To say goodbye.
Write true or false:
1. She is on the street _____2. The boy is alone _____3. It’s a sunny day _____4. He lives far away _____
In your own words, explain what do you understand by:
1. Am I getting through to you?:2. Keep in mind, we’re under the same sky:3. What I’m left imagining:4. Whenever I’m gone too long:
Explain with your own words, the story of the song:
How does the rain play a role in the song, what is its meaning?____________________________________________________________
If you really love somebody, what would you do to comeback?
The learners will continue with the second option, to extend the activities:
Option 2Making questions
The students will look for the questions asked in the song; in pairs they will answer them. Then, they will discuss which questions are really important and what other
questions they would do to the person from the song, and they will add more questions with answers.
Option 3 Phone conversation
As homework, the pupils can elaborate an informal conversation, like talking to a friend.
Option 4Watching a video clipUsing the clip from the song lets to predict or anticipate, what is going to occur in the video clip. After watching it, they will compare it to the song; saying if it was what they expected, what changes they noticed, and what they liked more or not and why? Also, what other elements they would add or take out? Option 5
Cultural elementsTo look for cultural elements and the differences and similarities in relation to students’ culture.
Option 6 Filming a clip
If there were time and equipment available, this would be an interesting follow-up alternative.
Option 7Vocabulary gameFrom the song are taken the new words or expressions and written in a piece of paper, and in slips of paper the definitions of this vocabulary. So the learners relate both papers to find out the meanings.
Kiss The Rain, By Billie Myers.
HelloCan you hear me?Am I gettin’ through to you?
Well helloIs it late there?There’s a laughter on the lineAre you sure you’re there alone?Cause I’mI’m trying to explainSomething’s wrongYou just don’t sound the sameWhy don’t youWhy don’t youGo outsideGo outside.
Kiss the rain Whenever you need meKiss the rainWhenever I’m gone too long If your lipsFeel lonely and thirstyKiss the rainAnd wait for the dawn.
Keep in mind We’re under the same skyAnd the nightsAs empty for me, as for youIf you feelYou can’t wait the till mornin’Kiss the rain (x 5).
Well helloDo you miss me?I hear ya say you doBut not the way I’m missin’ youSo what’s new?How’s the weather?Is it stormy where you are?You sound so close but it feels like you’re so far
Oh would it mean anythin’If you knewWhat I’m left imaginin’In my mindIn my mindWould you goWould you goKiss the rainKiss the rain.
As you fall over me Think of me (x 3)
Only meKiss the rainWhenever you need me
Kiss the rainWhenever I’m gone too longIf your lipsFeel hungry and temptedKiss the rain And wait for the dawn.
Keep in mindWe’re under the same skyAnd the nightsAs empty for me, as for youIf ya feelYou can’t wait till mornin’Kiss the rain (x 5)
Go outsideGo outsideWhy don’t you kiss the rainKiss the rain.
HelloCan you hear me?Can ya hear me?Do you miss me?Do yaThe way I miss youGoodbye.
4. Singing in class.
The purpose of this song it is to have a good pronunciation, just by singing a happy and simple song.
Song: Barbie girl, by Aqua.
Level: Any.Age: Any (Children and adolescents enjoy more this song). Time: 15-20 minutes.
ObjectiveThe students will be able to sing and have and fun.
Warm upTo talk about the childhood, the pupils’ favorite games, cartoons, toys, dreams, places, etc. ActivitiesThe teacher introduces the context: It is about a very famous doll and her fantasy world. Then, he asks, have you ever listened to the song “Barbie girl?” So, do you like it and why?
The song is played once just to listen to it. Then, it is played again and the teacher divides the class in two groups: the girls will sing the part by Barbie (in Times New Roman) and the boys the part by Ken (in Comic Sans MF). The group can sing as many times as they want.
Option 1Another song, which could be divided in two different parts is “The land of dreaming”, by Masterboy. Or any other with these characteristics.
Option 2As a complement the students could write about their childhood, including their favorite games, cartoons, movies, toys, dreams, etc.
ObservationThe song is quite successful with children and adolescents. But it could also be applied to adults. It depends of the characteristics of the group.
“Barbie Girl” By Aqua.
Hi Barbie!Hi Ken!
Do you want to go for a ride?Sure Kent!
Jump in!
I’M A BARBIE GIRLIN A BARBIE WORLD
LIFE IN PLASTICIT’S FANTASTIC
YOU CAN BRUSH MY HAIRUNDRESS ME EVERYWHERE
IMAGINATIONTHAT’S YOUR CREATION.
Come on Barbie, let’s go party.
I’m a blond
Single girlIn a fantasy world
Dress me upMake shine
I’m your dolly.
You’re my dollyRock and roll
Feel the glamour and painKiss me here
Touch me thereHanky panky.
You can touchYou can playYou could say
I’m always yours, ooh
Make me walkMake me talk
Do wherever you pleaseI can act like a star
I can beg in my knees.
Come jump in!Be my friend
Let us do it again
Hit the townFool around
Let’sGo party.
You can touchYou can playYou could say
I’m always yours, ooh.
(Repeat chorus).
5. Prepositions and changes.
The activities for this song are focused on the right use of prepositions. The song includes a lot of prepositions with different examples and combinations.
Song: I’ll be there, by The Escape Club.Level: Intermediate.Age: Young/adultsTime: 20 min.
General objectiveTo practice speaking and listening through discussion of the song. To talk and write about favorite places using prepositions.
Specific objectiveThe learners will be able to fill in the blanks with the correct prepositions.
ActivitiesBefore giving the song, ask about places where people can go to look for someone. The students will give examples. The song is given. They will identify all the places that they can. Here the teacher, could mention the movie “Ghost” and explain that the situation of this song is similar to the movie content. With this they can have a link and be engaged in listening to the song.
Next, they look for some nouns like, rain, trees, whisper, miles, etc. Pupils look for unknown words and the teacher guides the learners to guess the meanings of these words. Then, they will be asked to place the prepositions that in the blanks. Later, they will compare responses and discuss why they used those prepositions.
The song will be played once, pausing to check their answers. Then, the whole song will be played. Students explain/describe the song. The teacher asks, “Would you do that for somebody?” The pupils discuss why or why not.
Option 1HomeworkHave the learners write a description of their favorite place, describing it using prepositions. For example: “My favorite place is my bedroom. When I walk in my bedroom, I feel comfortable. I lay on my bed and imagine that I go to many places. I look at my posters on the wall,” and so on.
Option 2Several prepositions could be written in the blanks.
For example: In/under/round the mountains, over/in/under trees. The students and teacher can discuss all these possibilities and what prepositions are not possible, in accordance with the lyric’s topic. The same exercise can be done with adjectives, nouns or verbs.
Option 3Recreating a songTo make a new written version of the song. This activity emphasizes creativity. The following example includes the possible changes and the original lyrics.
Observations“Fill in the blanks”, it is the most frequent application of songs, however, by adding some variations it could be more useful in EFL class.
I’LL BE THEREBy Escape Club.
Over/behind mountains/volcanoes, over/under trees/pinesOver/under oceans/lakes, over/round seas/pools,Across/inside the desert/forest, I’ll be there.In/behind a whisper/noise on the wind/ringOn/in front of the smile/laughing of/with a new/old friend/girlJust think of/about me, and I’ll be there.
Don’t be afraid/hungry/angry, oh, my love
I’ll be watching you from above/belowAnd I’d give/run all the world tonight/right now To be with/by you’Cause I’m on/by your side/life,And I still care, I may have died/marriedBut I’ve gone nowhere/somewhere,Just think of/about me, and I’ll be there.
On/up the edge/end of/in a walking/sailing/funny dream/joke/shipOver/across rivers, over/under streamsThrough/in/by wind/car and rain/train, I’ll be here.Across/around the wide/short and open/close sky/skin/time,Thousands/hundred of miles/times/snacks I’d fly/buy
To be/eat with/for/by you. I’ll be there
Don’t be afraid… (repeat)
In the breath of a wind/bear that sighs/fightsOh, there’s no need/more to cry/hide/buy,Just think of/by me, and I’ll be there.
6. Discussion in class.
“Why”, it is a song which presents many topics to debate in class. In the same way emphasizes the four skills. The English teacher can adapt the activities and options to the class interests.
Song: Why? By, Tracy Chapman.Level: High intermediate or advanced.Age: Young/adultsTime: Variable.
General objectiveTo talk about contemporary themes, to emphasize discussion in class.To reinforce the four skills.
Specific objectivesLearners will be able to identify and discuss different topics. Then, be able to identify general and specific information.
Warm up What are some contemporary problems for human beings? Do you have one of these problems? Teacher asks.
ActivitiesDivide the class into groups, have the learners listen to the song. Then, students identify the situations presented in the song (poverty, war, loneliness, safety of women, and so forth).
They will discuss the topics and express what they agree with and what they don’t. So, each group will defend their point of view.
Option 1NewspaperAs homework, they will look for articles about the themes from the song. The following day, they show what they found, exchanging the articles and sharing opinions in relation to the topics.
One of the articles is selected; this one is about the conflict in Kozovo. Then, it is related to the lines of the song:
“Why are the missiles called peace keepers?When they’re aimed to kill”.
With this, the point to debate will be focused on this part of the song. Teacher and learners will discuss, who is right/wrong. What would you do if you were the USA or Yugoslavia president?
This activity emphasizes speaking in class, reading, comprehension, writing reflection and personal points of view.Option 2Reading and comprehension exerciseBy considering this article, an exercise of reading and comprehension will be answered in class. They can read aloud the article, and then, they will work with the following questionnaire:
General information1. What can you infer by the title? (NATO: North Atlantic Treaty Organization).2. What is the general idea of the whole text?
Specific information3. Who are Javier Solana and Jamie Shea?4. What is Aznar’s opinion, in relation to the conflict?
Talking and writing about points of view5. If you had the opportunity to solve the conflict what would you do? Give your
opinion:
Option 3The chart called “Latest Developments” can be discussed in class, point by point.
Option 4Another article can be chosen to work in class and related to the song content.
Option 5As a final assignment, the students can develop an essay about one of the themes offered in the song and presented it in class.
Why? By Tracy Chapman.
Why do the babies starveWhen there’s enough food to feed the worldWhy when there’re so many of us
Are there people still alone?
Why are the missiles called peace keepers?When they’re aimed to killWhy is a woman still not safe When she’s in her home
Love is hate
War is peaceNo is yesAnd we’re all free
But somebody’s gonna have to answerThe time is coming soonAmidst all these questions and contradictionsThere’s some who seek the truth
But somebody’s gonna have to answerThe time is coming soonWhen the blind remove their blindersAnd the speechless speak the truth.
7. Love songs.
Love songs are without doubt, the most popular kind of songs. The students can analyze their content and express opinions about love.
Level: Any.Age: Young/adults.Time: 15 minutes.
General objectiveTo analyze a love song, through a simple questionnaire.
Specific objectiveLearners will be able to express and talk their feelings.
Warm upTo ask the students, what do they think about love, their expectations and opinions.
ActivitiesThe learners will bring to class their favorites love songs. Then in groups, they will choose a song and answer the following questionnaire related to the song.
Write notes on the lyrics of the song you have chosen, answering the following questions.
1. What is “love” like, according to this song? Choose a spot on the continuum. Is it …
supremely important relatively unimportant
marvelous, full of joy terrible, painful
lasting ephemeral
what else? _______________________________________________________________
2. Words that describe love (does the song have any images or comparisons?) _____________________________________________________________________
3. Words that describe the loved one (images? Comparisons?) _____________________________________________________________________
4. If you’re in love, according to the song:
How do you behave? ______________________________________________________________________How do you feel? ______________________________________________________________________How does the person who is loved behave / feel? ______________________________________________________________________Answer the following questions about the nature of love.1. Which of the following statements comes closest to your idea of what love is? (Check one or more)___ Love is a paradise.___ Love is hell.___ Love is a disease.___ Love is a state of madness.___ Love is a religion.___ Love is an all-consuming fire.___ Love is a kind of warfare.___ Love is an ephemeral nonsense.___ Love is ________________.
2. How important, how valuable is it for you? Which of the following sentences comes closest to your opinion?
___ The most important thing, the only valuable thing in the world.___ A good thing, but not the only good thing in the world.___ A mixed blessing.___ A disaster; it always ends in tragedy.___ A pleasant illusion, cloaking the reality of sex.___ An unpleasant illusion, distorting our idea of relations between the sexes.
3. If you love someone, what would you be most likely to compare him or her to?___ a flower: _____________ a bird: ____________ an animal: ______________ a celestial body: _____________ a part of nature: _____________ something else: ___________
4. If a man loves a woman, this is how he behaves: ___ Writes poems to her.___ Sends her flowers and gifts.___ Weeps and sighs if she doesn’t respond.___ Acts in a mainly, masterful way.___ Conceals his love.___ _______________________________
5. If a woman loves a man, this is how she behaves:___ Gives him gifts.___ Pretends to love someone else.___ Conceals her love.___ Tells him about it.___ Sighs and weeps if he doesn’t pay attention to her.___ _____________________________(Collie, J and S. Slater 1987, p. 174-175).
Option 1Exchanging answers and points of view
