the real school of rock
 
We all have our moments in the spotlight. Here’s mine. I was featured in VW Driver Magazine for rockin’ out in the classroom.
 
Music in the Classroom When I say I use music in class, I mean I USE MUSIC! It’s a part of my everyday schedule. I have a song for cleanup, morning meeting, “Here comes the weekend” song, etc... The students become acclimated to the music, so when you bring it out for a lesson, they’re not overwhelmed by it. Listen to a lot of music! You’ve got to in order to use it properly. Song choice can make or break a lesson, so choose wisely. Yes, it helps if you have a huge library of Cds or the Internet. If you’re interested in using music in the classroom, you probably do anyway You need to meet the kids half way. You can’t put on some dusty old music and expect the youngins’ to jump for joy. Once you’ve gained their respect by using some of their tunes, you can incorporate music into lessons. Plus, you’ll be known as the cool teacher. And that’s worth all the figs in Italy. If you are using music with lyrics, make sure your lesson deals with the words of the song. If not, use instrumental music. Younger grades zero in on lyrics almost always to distraction. Organization, tone, voice and theme just scream from great songs. Sounds like writing, huh? Of course it does. It is writing. Songs are always throwing around figurative language. A great teachable moment here. You just have to find the right songs. Write a song with your class. Students really absorb the feel of revision during the process. Hot Topic Music is my drug. I need it, want it, got to have it. Bringing my passion for music into the classroom is one of my best educational decisions to date. I’ve never seen a student frown when I crank up the radio or pull the guitar off the wall. Nope, not one. When a student smiles in the face of learning, you’ve won, you’ve got them snagged. Thank you, good night!
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are you down with music? Click The Listening Room Kid Tunes If you like kid tunes, WXPN 88.5 on the Fm dial brings you some cool music on a show called Kid’s Corner. Tune In! “For over ten years, teen writers and Portland area musician-volunteers have teamed up to write and record original songs for their annual music CDs.”