Math and Music: A Geometry Example

Denise Burson
May 04, 2009

Did you know that using music could help one learn super effectively and efficiently?

In an attempt to make the learning of mathematics more interesting and memorable, Osceola County kindergarten teacher, Michele Weaver, uses music to convey mathematical concepts to her students. Miss Weaver has found that singing songs with her children imprints the content in their brains. She has found that music is a natural way for children to learn.

Research has shown that music connects the functions of the right and left hemispheres of the brain, so they work together and make learning quick and easy. Brain function is increased when listening to music, and studies have shown that music promotes more complex thinking. It can make connections between emotions, thinking and learning. (Davies, 2000). Gardner reports that using rhythm, chanting, and songs with students can increase their attention and interest while motivating them to learn (Gardner, 1985.)

Miss Weaver wants to motivate teachers to incorporate music, rhymes, chants, and songs in their classrooms. The following songs are some of the songs that she developed for her Geometry Learning Unit.

Geometric Shape Song By: Michelle Weaver
(Tune of:  Are You Sleeping?)

(Teacher) (Students repeat)
I'm a Cube- I'm a Cube
I can be stacked- I can be stacked
I can also slide- I can also slide
But I can't roll- I can't roll

I'm a Cone- I'm a Cone
I can roll- I can roll
I can also slide- I can also slide
But I can't be stacked-I can't be stacked

I'm a Sphere- I'm a Sphere
I can roll- I can roll
I cannot be stacked-I cannot be stacked
And I can't slide-I can't slide

I'm a Cylinder-I'm a Cylinder
I can be stacked-I can be stacked
I can also slide-I can also slide
And I can roll, I can roll

I'm a Pyramid-I'm a Pyramid
I can slide-I can slide
I cannot be stacked, I cannot be stacked
And I can't roll, I can't roll

I'm a Rectangular Prism, I'm a Rectangular Prism
I can be stacked, I can be stacked
I can also slide, I can also slide
But I can't roll, I can't roll

(Hand motions can also be used while singing to show what each shape can do. Arms can be crossed and sad facial expressions added when a shape can't roll, slide, or be stacked.)

If music can set the stage for learning and help children learn effectively and efficiently, what are we waiting for?

Refer to Connecting Exemplary Practices in Acquisition Lessons for more ideas on music and other mnemonic devices to help students retain what they have learned.