https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikmby3-7ujoWhat are the two most important words in the English language?

Answer: Go Cubs

All kidding aside, this was the last song I had playing in my classroom as students entered the room every day during MLB playoffs. The narrated presentation this week talked about getting to know our students, and using music as a way to do that.  This is an example of how I share my interests with students. I teach Calculus, so it's hard sometimes to find time to get "off topic" and get to know students better. Music and sports are two ways of doing that.

I don't teach any ELL students; however, this song could benefit English Learners (at the time it was played) because it would help students new to the US learn about current events. For example, after the Cubs won several players appeared on SNL and sang Go Cubs Go. By hearing the song earlier in the week, they would have had some context for understanding that skit.  Students may also be able to engage in conversations with peers at lunch about the playoffs.  

Sometimes I like to throw fun, non-math extra credit questions on my test.  I could put some Cubs trivia on there (e.g. The Cubs play in the ___________ League. What is the name of the Cub's ballpark?)

Ahh! This song is going to be in my head the rest of the week now :)

I used to love this song as a kid. I think it's great for students learning English.  I like your idea of identifying rhyming words and using picture cards.  I think illustrations would be really cute, and it would make it fun for students to see a llama wearing pajamas, for example!  

Hi Kaytlin,

Thanks for this example. I struggled with this assignment a little bit because I teach high school Calculus so teaching song lyrics doesn't happen often (beside a few little song-y type ways to remember formulas). I like your idea of playing the song Happy because I think my students are often overly stressed about school.  I often encourage students to do expressive writing before tests to help free up their working memory. I like your idea about journaling with a positive outlook. Thanks!

Glad you had fun at the game! For my Bachelorette Party this summer, I went to a Cubs game with all of my friends. I taught the girls from LA the lyrics before the game, but unfortunately we didn't get to sing it that day :(

My husband is a die-hard Dodgers fan as well. We already have tickets to the Cubs v. Dodgers in LA for Memorial Day weekend. Can't wait!