Can you imagine a world without music? Studies show that public schools across the country are cutting back on music classes to save money. Even worse, some schools have never had music classes to begin with. But without them, students′ academic growth and spiritual health could suffer. In fact, music classes are necessary for all students in schools.
Recent studies Brown University have shown that students who received music education classes were better in math and reading skills than those without music classes. Another study by The College Board found that students taking music and art classes got higher points. Students′ academic success seems to depend on their taking part in music education.
Music programs in public schools also help to add to a student′s sense of pride and self-confidence. Teens today have too many learning tasks. Besides, they have family problems, self-confidence problems, relationship troubles, and choices about smoke and alcohol. All of these can stop academic success, but music education can help. A study by The Texas Commission on Drug and Alcohol Abuse found that students who took part in school music programs were less likely to turn to smoke. Music programs encourage students to work together to produce an excellent performance.
Music crosses language, class and culture. Music allows students from different countries to connect. For example, at a school talent show, a new Japanese student played a piano duet with an American classmate. Two students from different cultures worked as a team with self-confidence and common purpose through music.
The gift of music is priceless. We need to be sure to have necessary music classes for all students. The world is losing its music, and putting music into schools is the first step to get it back.
【小题1】What can we learn about education with music classes?| A．It allows schools to make more money. |
| B．It can cause a lot of academic problems. |
| C．It will affect the world cultural communication greatly. |
| D．It does good to students′ academic success and spiritual health. |
| A．Students with great success attend music lessons. |
| B．Music classes play an important role in students′ growth. |
| C．Not all students could have music classes at school. |
| D．Students who have music classes do better in all subjects. |
| A．Japan has a good relationship with America. |
| B．Different cultures have different styles of music. |
| C．Music makes cross-cultural communication possible. |
| D．Japanese and American students are good at playing the piano. |
| A．The Importance of Music Classes in School | B．Music—A Bridge to Understanding |
| C．Studies on Music Education | D．How to Get Music Back |
