I love how you take songs to teach both language and history. I also used to teach English with songs (such as Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind) in Mexico in one of the "Escuelas Populares" (People's Schools)--though your lessons here are more organized!
I can't comment on the Japanese, but I definitely expanded my learning of history with some of the facts you mentioned (especially around the last verse) even though I've sung this Phil Ochs song for years. Shows how a good song has so much depth that a good teacher can show us!
I, too, learn something every time I do research for these songs. Although the articles are aimed at Japanese learners of English, the majority of the people who read them are native speakers. One problem with Substack is that it is so little-known here in Japan. The interface is also in English which can put off students of a certain level.
How exciting to have taught in Mexico. What a wonderful experience that must have been for you and for the students. Each context is different as is each set of students. It's fascinating how culture affects how and what we (are able to?) teach.
I love how you take songs to teach both language and history. I also used to teach English with songs (such as Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind) in Mexico in one of the "Escuelas Populares" (People's Schools)--though your lessons here are more organized!
I can't comment on the Japanese, but I definitely expanded my learning of history with some of the facts you mentioned (especially around the last verse) even though I've sung this Phil Ochs song for years. Shows how a good song has so much depth that a good teacher can show us!
Juliana, thank you for your kind comments.
I, too, learn something every time I do research for these songs. Although the articles are aimed at Japanese learners of English, the majority of the people who read them are native speakers. One problem with Substack is that it is so little-known here in Japan. The interface is also in English which can put off students of a certain level.
How exciting to have taught in Mexico. What a wonderful experience that must have been for you and for the students. Each context is different as is each set of students. It's fascinating how culture affects how and what we (are able to?) teach.
Thanks for reading SIS!