TEACHING ENGLISH THROUGH MUSIC TO THE 8TH LEVEL OF BASIC EDUCATION STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES AT MARGARITA CORTES EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION IN ESMERALDAS, 2017

Abstract

In order to analyze how music can contribute to the improvement of the teaching-learning process of the English language on the eighth level of basic education students with learning difficulties at "Margarita Cortes" Educational Institution in Esmeraldas, a descriptive investigation was carried out using the methods of deduction and induction; in addition, techniques such as the interview, observation and survey were applied to a population of 40 students and one English teacher of the eighth level of basic education students with learning difficulties at "Margarita Cortes" Educational Institution. The results revealed that students enjoy listening, singing and performing activities with songs in the English classes; students feel motivated and willing to learn English after singing a song because they can memorize and understand the language better. The English teacher does not usually use music in her lessons because there is a lack of knowledge about how to apply music in the class and what are the activities and strategies that can be used. This research coincided with a series of investigations related to the use of music applying the ludic methodology and suggestopedia method, emphasizing the use of physical activities and a relaxed atmosphere within the classroom, but not with the use of music as a methodology to teach the content of the textbook. That is why some pedagogical activities, strategies, and songs for the use of music on the eighth level of basic education students with learning difficulties at "Margarita Cortes" Educational Institution in Esmeraldas, were presented as a proposal of this research.