Song of the Month

Musical Spelling

Learning to spell tricky words can be a challenge for many students. Studies show that people will remember things better if they are set to music. Here is an easy way to help remember how to spell our hometown--Cincinnati. It is adapted from the tune MISSISSIPPI which I learned as a child and still use today when I have to spell the word. There are many ways you can use this song. Having a visual cue is good for visual learners or if the student needs to write/type the word. Write out the 3 sections on 3 X 5 cards and present them as you sing the words. After a few repetitions, mix up the cards and have the student put them in order. After singing the song a few times together, leave out the last three lines to see if the student can repeat them correctly. Use magnetic letters on a metal board. Again, place the letters one at a time as you sing them, then have the student do the same. Write the letters on paper as you sing them. Have the student do the same. Use a computer keyboard to type the word as you sing, have the student do the same. If you find this strategy helpful for learning, you may want to consult a music therapist for help in creating other songs.

C-I-N-C-I-N-N-A-T-I
(Adapted from M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I by Hanlon, Ryan and Tierney)
copyright Mimi Sinclair, 2009

C-I-N
C-I-N
N-A-T-I
It used to be so hard to spell
It used to make me cry
But since I studied spelling
It's just like pumpkin pie
C-I-N
C-I-N
N-A-T-I

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