MUSIC

When you recite a poem or song, you memorize it first. Then you say it aloud for others to hear.

• 1 Choose a Song Select a song or poem that you know well and that you can share. Try to select one that is meaningful to you. It should be short enough to memorize. Songs or poems that have a strong rhythm, or beat, are easier to memorize. Rhyming words—words like sky and fly or friend and send—also make a song or poem easier to remember.

• 2 Practice Learn the poem or song lyrics until you do not need to read the words. Then practice reciting it with emotion, or feeling.

• 3 Share Your Song Recite your poem or song lyrics to a group. Be sure to tell the title and the name of the songwriter or poet.

  • • Say the words clearly so listeners can understand them.

  • • Use an appropriate tempo, or timing. Do not speak too quickly or too slowly.

  • • Speak at the right volume: loud enough that people can hear you, but not too loud.

  • • Use meaningful phrasing. Let people hear the rhythm of the poem or lyrics. Pause at the right times. Stress the right words.

  • • Express the meaning and emotion of the poem or lyrics. Use the appropriate tone and movements with your hands and face.

  

  It is easier to memorize a short poem with a strong rhythm and rhyming words.

• 4 Discuss Which songs did you enjoy most? What did you like about them?