Problem Statement/Research Question

The problem is that many sixth grade students struggle with math and have low test scores. How can sixth grade students improve scores on their math tests?

Educational Music Thearpy

I recently found this book: Art Therapies in Schools : Research and Practice by Karkou, Vicky

(Chapter 7 - Emma Pethybridge and James Robertson)

I skimmed through several parts of the book until my attention was caught by Chapter 7: Educational Music Therapy. I could definitely use this as part of my research. Chapter 7 considers the prospective concept of educational music therapy and implementing this model with practical context, especially in a school setting. This chapter discusses the overlap between music education and music therapy and how this applies to student success, using a Scotland school and public schools in Texas who embraced this model, as examples. I also like how this chapter focuses on "practical" music therapy and how it pertains to students academically. This chapter suggests (as this chart indicates) certain coping skills that music can help to foster in children that can help them become more successful in school.

Works Cited

Karkou, V., Pethybridge, E., Robertson, J. (2009, November). Art therapies in schools.

              Retrieved from http://site.ebrary.com/lib/wscc/reader.action?docID=10415822

A New Focus

After a little thought and consideration, I have decided to change my project just a little. Instead of focusing on music therapy for individuals with learning challenges, I would rather study music therapy and its ability to improve math scores. Music and math are closely related and I believe that music therapy before a grade level math test will help stimulate the mind and improve their test scores.