EFFECTIVE TEACHING STRATEGIES FOR MUSIC LITERACY IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

Music as a subject has historically been considered an integral part of learning. The importance of music was also recognized by the Nigerian government hence, the inclusion of music as one of the subjects to be studied in the elementary (Kindergarten, nursery and primary) classes. One of the objectives of elementary education in the Nigerian Policy of Education is to 'inculcate in the child spirit of enquiry and creativity through the exploration of nature, the environment, art, music and the use of toys etc.'(Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2013). Music as a component of learning is thus integral to children education because it helps children in learning about different emotions through listening to different types of music. They also learn body awareness through dancing and moving to the rhythm. This helps them gain an understanding of their environment (culture) and music traditions around them. As they grow, music is useful in helping them to reduce and relieves stress and tension. Music is a natural and important part of young children’s growth development. It serves the expressive, emotional, intellectual, social and creative needs of all children. Music has also been found as a subject that enhances and accelerates learning in school children. This is because it possesses an attribute that aids memory. Music is one way to use the whole brain; most people remember the song they learned in early childhood because lyrics combined with music are easier to learn. Music plays a major role in the life of a school community just as it plays in the society at large. It contributes to a group's sense of identity and to an individual's sense of belonging to a group. It performs an indispensable function during get-together, celebration of festivals and occasions and other events in the school or the community at large. If children interact with music early, it positively affects the quality of their lives (Odunuga, 2012).