Sing it and spell it: Lyrics Training

Traditional listening activity which involves listening to audio recording can be boring because it is too common. Hence, Lyrics training brings about a revolution in listening activity. Lyrics training is a tool in which challenges users to transcribe the lyrics while listening to the song. This tool will surely be fun when incorporated into language classroom. Let's check it out!

How to use it?

Using Lyrics training is very simple. Go to the website homepage, search for your favourite song, select the game mode (beginner, intermediate, or expert) and have fun filling in the blank. This tool is definitely user-friendly!

These are guide to game control:

You can find this instruction box by clicking 'Help' button under the video clip

How could it be used in language teaching?

Generally, Lyrics training is useful for learners to practice their listening skill. As compared to audio recording of a text being read aloud, song is more engaging for both young and adult learners. Moreover, they can choose the song which they would want to listen to. Also, Lyrics training allows self evaluation. Learners will get feedback immediately after they finished transcribing the song. As they keep playing the game, they can monitor their own progress. When they are conscious about their own skill development, they will be more motivated to use the second language.

Advantages

1. The tool is free and user-friendly.
2. Accommodate learners of different levels of language ability. Learners can select the level that suits them when playing the game. For lower level learner, they would not find any difficulty which can demotivate them and hinder learning process.
3. Song is known to be an authentic material. Using authentic material in language classroom is believed to be more motivating for students to participate in classroom activity.
4. Songs in Lyrics training are current and up-to-date and therefore, keeping up with learners' interest. 
5. Using song for listening activity is more fun. As a result, it promotes independent learning. Students who find this tool interesting may continue using it outside classroom environment.
6. Other than promoting effective listening skill, learners can also learn correct pronunciation and new vocabularies from the song.

Disadvantages

1. Require internet connection if it is to be used in the classroom.
2. Certain songs may contain profanity that are not suitable for young learners.