Parodies

We discuss the features of good song parodies in general and further focus on educational ones. Pitfalls to avoid are also emphasized. The speaker's area of expertise is mathematics, but the experiences and examples presented here can be transferred to any subject area.

Parody songwriting presents a number of constraints on performers which may impact student learning. I will discuss my use of annotations, written notes external to the lyrics but presented alongside lyrics, to bypass some of these constraints. Annotations can clarify concepts, provide definitions and point students to important ideas. I will present evidence that students enjoy this innovation and go through some advantages and disadvantages (with examples). I will also discuss some special challenges for educators (like myself) who cannot play a musical instrument.

Sing a Song of Science is an OSU University Honors Colloquium class I teach that encourages and teaches students the value of music in science education. In addition, it provides a road map for students to write songs of their own using the strategies employed in writing the Metabolic Melodies.

Songs are an effective, powerful tool for teaching facts and concepts in most any field of knowledge. As a college instructor, I have come up with some handy mnemonic songs for remembering the spectral classes of stars, or the names and accomplishments of famous astronomers.

In my ATM S 111: Global Warming class, I sing a song each class about the scientific topic we're covering. Our repertoire has been built up over the last 7 years, with contributions by me, fellow professors, and students. I'll discuss successes, failures, and future plans, and will sing a few examples as well.