Music in Action: Developing Creative Writing Skills for Young Learners

Abstract

English learning in Korea is often heavily dependent on standardized tests, and many of these exams are reading and listening multiple-choice ones. Many Korean EFL learners can comprehend written and spoken language, but have very little confidence in producing the language, whether it is written or spoken. Through this textbook, students will have the opportunity to practice producing the language through writing and speaking activities and tasks. To make English learning more enjoyable, this textbook incorporates music listening to speaking and writing. Connecting music to language will help young learners to be actively engaged in English learning. The musical activities are very different from the ones from textbooks they are familiar with; it is designed to help students to practice their productive skills in a more engaging way through numerous independent, pair and group work. Moreover, students will also have the chance to expand their vocabulary knowledge. One goal of music teachers is to help students to appreciate music. Therefore, they try not to describe musical pieces as “happy music” or “music that makes me sad”; rather, they help students to acquire appropriate musical terminology that guide them to explain the music in detail. Likewise, the words in the textbook help the learners to acquire and utilize them throughout the book. They will be engaged in activities that help them to use different words. With a focus in writing, this textbook will also provide students the opportunity to integrate other skills as well. Students will be engaged in helpful discussions and acquire presentation skills. Students will also develop their appreciation for music through connecting musical pieces to their writing. They will learn to utilize music to their tasks and activities. Creative writing opportunities for children are uncommon. Learners are provided a unique opportunity for learners to gain English language skills that allow them to practice self expression and imagination through their L2. This textbook also aims to fill this need for creative writing.