MUSIC: A LAID-BACK WAY TO LEARN LANGUAGES

Priscila

Love for music is a great source of motivation in developing learning any language skill, especially since almost everybody likes to do it. According to researchers, students find it easier to learn languages. I have experienced learning English language with this learning style and I found it very effective.

Although learning a foreign language in a traditional way may be efficient, students want to learn without stress or obligation. Music is a relaxed way to learn, especially if they cannot adapt to traditional methods. Even though certain lyrics present a high level of difficulty in relation to the level of student learning, it can serve as a challenge, leading the student to improve their skills in languages.With music, students who like it become motivated, thereby accelerating the process of learning.  

When students listen to music, they can improve their speaking and listening skills. They can learn how to pronounce words and speak more naturally. They also can practice listening, making it simpler to understand native speakers in a conversation. 

Another advantage is that some lyrics talk about everyday themes and therefore students can learn common slang and expressions in the target language. This is important for becoming fluent. Besides learning slang and expressions, students unconsciously receive “grammar lessons” by listening to music. However, they must be careful because some lyrics are not written according to the rules of grammar. 

Some researchers claim that students can learn a foreign language more easily by listening to music. According to Oxford (1990), music is an affective strategy for reducing anxiety in assisting language learning. In addition, it is also considered a memory, cognitive, compensation, metacognitive and social strategy.

In conclusion, music is an interesting and effective tool in language learning, considering its effects on student's learning and motivation for becoming fluent. The process of  learning a language should be delightful. When they can reconcile learning and pleasure they will be more successful.