In a linguistic conundrum, a new version of the alphabet song has left the internet reeling, revealing a split among generations. Rachel Sorsel, an American teacher, recently shared a TikTok that explains how schoolchildren are now being taught the alphabet with a revised melody. This update has perplexed many adults, some of whom argue that while the song serves its educational purpose, it’s no longer necessary for those who have long mastered their ABCs.
The original tune, which flows from “A-B-C-D-E-F-G, H-I-J-K, L-M-N-O-P, Q-R-S, T-U-V, W-X, Y and Z” to “Now I know my ABCs, Next time won’t you sing with me?” has undergone a significant change.
Is this hyperbole you may be asking? Yes, yes, it is, but still… It has changed a key pillar of our youth!
@teacherrachelsorsel It's true: they changed the alphabet song. But it's for a good reason! #scienceofreading #earlyliteracy #teachyourkidtoread #structuredliteracy #developmentallyappropriate #sor #phonics #alphabetsong #theychangedthealphabet #teachertip #preschool #kindergarten #firstgrade ♬ original sound – Mindful Teacher – SoR & SEL
The new version aims to clarify the common mishearing of “l-m-n-o-p” as “elemenopee,” stressing the distinct sounds: “A-B-C-D-E-F-G, H-I-J-K-L-M-N, O-P-Q, R-S-T, U-V-W, X-Y-Z, Now I never will forget, how to say the alphabet.”
While some viewers took to social media to voice their opinions with amusement and frustration, it seems the real debate may lie in their nostalgia for previous iterations of childhood classics.
