Music to Spark Students Creativity

Posted by Debbie DeSpirt May 23, 2008

Bring music into the classroom to keep students motivated for the last month of school. Junior and Intermediate students begin to act up in the final month because they are aware most of the grades have been calculated for their final report card. It is difficult to keep these students engaged because grades were their motivator.

Fun is another excellent motivator and music can initiate this with the older and younger students. Put on a Oscar Peterson (well known Jazz musician) song to initiate a creative writing paper. Play the song for a few minutes and have students put their heads down, with their eyes closed and just listen. After you have played a small part students are to write about the images created in their head and write a story. Students will be more engaged in this activity because the music has excited them to write.

As well, music can assist in writing, art, and social studies. Play music from a time period and have students write about the atmosphere at the time based on the music. Students will have to listen if it was a sad or happy time and make conclusions based on the music. Students are learning even though a grade may not be given for the assignment.

Last month of school can be tiring for the teachers and students because all want the summer to commence for relaxation. Add a little music to the classroom to stimulate the students and teacher.