Lyricsgaps

Lyricsgaps is an online tool to learn and teach English through song lyrics by filling in missing words, improving listening, vocabulary, and grammar in a fun way.

Location: Classroom

Target age: >10 years old

Target language level: A2

• To improve listening comprehension and vocabulary through music.

• To enhance students’ spelling and word recognition in context.

• To promote engagement and enjoyment in English learning through authentic materials (songs).

• Identify and understand key words from a song’s lyrics.

• Use listening skills to fill in missing words in the lyrics.

• Pronounce new words correctly when singing along.

• Work collaboratively to complete a listening task.

1. Choose the song

• Select an age-appropriate song with clear, positive lyrics.

• Avoid songs with slang, difficult vocabulary, or adult themes.

2. Prepare the LyricsGaps activity 

• Go to the web: www.lyricsgaps.com.

• Search for your chosen song and preview available versions.

• Choose the “Beginner” or “Intermediate” gap-fill level depending on your students’ proficiency.

• Alternatively, create your own version by selecting which words will be blanked out (focus on common verbs, nouns, or adjectives).

3. Get ready for class use

• Test the activity to make sure the audio works and that the number of gaps is appropriate.

• Prepare a list of 5–8 key vocabulary items from the song (words students may not know).

• Print QR codes or write the LyricsGaps link on the board for easy access.

• Ensure all students have access to a device and headphones (pairs or small groups work well).

Extension Ideas: 

• Vocabulary challenge: Ask students to write 3 new words they learned and use them in short sentences.

• Creative task: Students create their own “lyrics gap” for a different song to challenge a partner.

• Performance: End the lesson by singing the song as a class or making a mini karaoke session!

1. Listen carefully to the song we’ll play. You’ll hear it twice!

2. As you listen to the song, fill in the missing words in the lyrics.

3. Try to guess the word if you’re not sure.

4. You can replay short parts if needed!

5. When you finish, check your answers and see your score.

6. Practice singing the song together focus on pronunciation and rhythm! 

7. Bonus challenge: Write or draw what the song makes you feel or think about.

• Gap-fill activities with songs at different levels (Beginner to Advanced)

• Multiple activity modes (fill in blanks, multiple choice, karaoke, translation)

• Search by song, artist, or difficulty level

• Works on computer, tablet, and smartphone

• Teachers can create their own exercises

• Lower (ages 12–14): Guess rhyming words before listening

• Intermediate (ages 13–15): Compare original lyrics to a translation

• Upper Intermediate (ages 15–17): Create your own “gap-fill” version for classmates

• Advanced (16+): Analyze figurative language & idioms in song lyrics

• Mixed levels: Karaoke mode → Sing along as pronunciation practice