During lessons, I would ask kids if they knew the English alphabet, and 99% of the time young learners could sing the song but not spell their own names or identify the letters. I saw the need to slow down and explore when learning; even for native speakers. Each letter of the alphabet deserves every child's attention.
When children and adults are told the ABC emancipation story there is a noticeable spike in their interest in words. It's almost as if they are hearing words for the first time.
When younger learners (3-13yr)see the Lucky puppet they immediately relax a little. Our "transitional" little fellow takes the edge off and encourages engagement. It has play written all over it. And playing is where learning really begins.
When the letters themselves become starting point of a conversation, the words are not as intimidating. Each and every word has such an exaggerated sense of importance that the learner almost sympathizes with them. Words can be very ambiguous.
As a rapper, I have been using the technique that I'm best at; rap. I have made the letters of the alphabet accessible by recording a rap song (freestyle recording) for each letter.
I also teach English as a second language courses to young learners. They have become so excited about learning English that their parents have started learning the Lucky Mushroom way.
Word of mouth, local schools, and the internet have been the tools that I have been relying on. I have managed to make the whole thing more entertaining so I will be using an app.
All one has to do is go on youtube and look for "The Emancipation of The ABCs" (The first 13) or download the app. Listen to the letter H followed by the letter I. Allow the letters to introduce themselves one at a time.
While listening keep in mind that the artist for each song is a letter of the English alphabet and is not keen on promoting the other 25 letters.
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