An Overview of Song-based lessons in the EFL classrooms: from Nursery Rhymes to Hip-hop Music

Abstract

[eng] This study aims to provide a literature review of song-based lessons' in the EFL classroom. The work will develop two main sections, the first devoted to an initial evaluation of the benefits of music-based activities and why it is one of the most engaging techniques in the EFL classroom up to date, despite not being a new methodological technique. This section will also provide a general analysis of what trends music-based lessons have followed and what type of activities and competences can be performed. Nursery rhymes and pop music have been prominent resources in the EFL classroom, however the tendency in the last decade has moved towards the introduction of hip-hop music not only in the English classroom but also in the improvement of general literacy. The second section will expand on a teaching proposal based on the literature review with regards to develop a course-long proposal incorporating rap songs in each didactic unit to boost specific linguistic features, particularly focusing on speaking and writing activities, to improve the students' communicative competence. Considering the early stages of academic development regarding hip-hop incorporation in the EFL classroom, this study will work as an early evaluation that would bring to light which benefits rap music has when compared to other music styles, motivation being one of the main ones among students.