Can music be used to enhance the learning of reading, writing, science, and/or math? Theory and research suggests that music does facilitate learning in these areas. The purpose of the review of research presented here is to delineate and discuss the effects of music on the learning of academic basics such as reading, writing, science, and math.
The presented review is divided into four categories. These are: (1) Effects of music on language arts skills and abilities; (2) Effects of music on science learning; and (3) Effects of music on mathematical skills and abilities. The final section of the review formulates a series of conclusions related to the reviewed material.
Effects of Music on Language Arts Skills and Abilities
Hennings and Grant (1981) have discussed the influence of music on students' written expression. According to the authors, music inspires certain images which can be used by students as a foundation for writing about the images experienced. As Hennings and Grant (1981) put it:
"Ebb Tide," makes the listener feel as if he or she is standing in the sand, watching the sea race in and out. George Gershwin's "An American in Paris," brings the sounds of taxi horns in Paris...(In response to Ferde's Grand Canyon Suite, eighth graders)...felt as if they were standing in the desert, witnessing a rising storm and the quiet that follows. They enjoyed the music suggestion so much that they told their friends...about the experience and these students asked their teacher if they too could "write from the Grand Canyon." (Hennings & Grant, 1981 p. 104)
In other words, the music not only was used by students as a foundation for expressing their reaction to it, it also motivated students to write and made the classroom experience fun.
Another way in which music can be used as a springboard for written expression is by having children explore the meaning of certain songs. In this regard, Hennings and...