Everything in the universe has a rhythm, including learning and teaching

Abstract

Today, most of the ESL (English as a Second Language) learners in Sri Lanka consider English language learning as anxiety packed, insipid and an unconquerable obstacle. If facilitators can integrate music into ELT (English Language Teaching), the ELT sessions can be converted into a stress free, learner friendly atmosphere. This study attempts to investigate whether music can be implemented in teaching English grammar and vocabulary. The sample of this study consists of 100 students from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the University of Kelaniya. A pre-test was given to test 50 students’ prior knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, in a traditional classroom setting. The control group of another 50 students was exposed to a teaching session of grammar and vocabulary using music. Later on, their acquired knowledge was tested through a post-test. The results showcase that if used properly by the facilitator, English songs are an excellent means of cultivating interest and high motivation in language learning.