Enhancing Math Learning with Melodic Teaching

Summary of Akhshabi, Moradi & Dortaj (2022)

Background & Existing Knowledge

Prior research highlights that music enhances cognitive functions, motivation, and memory retention. Melodic teaching strategies, such as singing math formulas, can improve conceptual understanding.

New Insights from This Study

✔ Music-based teaching improves elementary students’ mathematical retention by 70.8%.
✔ Students showed an 86% increase in motivation when melodic elements were incorporated.
✔ Rhythmic and melodic elements significantly aid in problem-solving and cognitive flexibility.

Practical Applications: How Educators Can Use This Research

1. Interdisciplinary Lesson Planning

📌 Use musical mnemonics to help students memorize math formulas.
📌 Apply rhythm-based exercises to reinforce number sequences and problem-solving.
📌 Compare traditional vs. music-based teaching approaches for difficult concepts.

2. Creating Inclusive Classrooms

📌 Allow students to sing or create their own learning songs.
📌 Use background instrumental music to enhance classroom focus.
📌 Incorporate group singing activities for peer learning and collaboration.

3. Developing Psychomotor Skills

📌 Integrate hand-clapping patterns to reinforce mathematical sequences.
📌 Utilize melodic exercises to help students improve spatial reasoning.
📌 Encourage body movement with music to build memory recall.

Conclusion

This study highlights that melodic teaching methods significantly enhance mathematical learning, engagement, and problem-solving abilities in young learners.

Reference

Akhshabi, M., Moradi, Y., & Dortaj, F. (2022). Investigating the music and melodic teaching impacts on the math learning progress of elementary school students. Iranian Journal of Learning & Memory, 5(17), 33-39.

Suggested Citation

Ross, E. M., & Malar, D. B. J. (2025). Enhancing Math Learning with Melodic Teaching. Excellent Educator, 2(4), 5.