Using Songs to Explore Language, Culture and History with Tommy Bradford

Using Songs to Explore Language, Culture and History with Tommy Bradford

Author: TESOL Pop November 28, 2023 Duration: 13:42

English teacher and fellow podcaster Tommy Bradford shares how he uses songs and music with adult language learners in his classes.

In this episode, Tommy talks about:

✅ What inspired him to use music in his classes with his adult students

✅ Why it’s crucial to factor in learners’ level and interests when choosing songs

✅ Supporting learners in developing a deeper understanding of a song through guided research

✅ Three songs he frequently uses in classes, why he uses them and the meaning behind them

To learn more about Tommy’s work, follow him on Instagram here.

💡 Did you know that TESOL Pop has a YouTube channel where you can watch this episode with closed captions and many more? Click here to watch.

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Credits

Podcaster & Producer Laura Wilkes

Audio-Video Editor Haven Tsang

With thanks to our fun guest, Tommy Bradford.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


Ever feel like the best teaching ideas come from a quick chat in the staffroom, but your schedule never allows for it? TESOL Pop captures that spark. Designed for the busy English language teacher, this mini podcast delivers compact, meaningful conversations with TESOL, TEFL, and ESL educators globally. Each episode is a focused interview, kept under fifteen minutes, packed with practical ideas and personal insights that can genuinely shift your approach in the classroom. You’ll hear stories about career pivots, reflections on what actually works with students, and clever uses of technology, all shared in a casual, accessible tone. It’s the audio equivalent of a refreshing coffee break with a colleague who gets it. The podcast understands that profound professional development doesn’t always require a lengthy seminar; sometimes, a single, well-timed insight is enough to reinvigorate your teaching. By tuning in, you join a global conversation that feels both personal and immediately useful, making it easy to integrate new perspectives into your daily routine without overwhelming your calendar.
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