Enhancing Vocabulary in English Learning through Songs in Senior High School

  • Millen Rahmanisha Utami Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Thaha Saifuddin
  • Muhammad Taridi
  • Nisaul Fadillah

Abstract

This study aims to improve students' English vocabulary mastery through song-based learning activities at SMAN 12 Merangin. The research method used is Classroom Action Research (CAR) with a qualitative approach. This study was conducted for two cycles. The research subjects were 30 students of class X of SMA Negeri 12 Merangin. The results of the study indicate that the application of song-based learning in English subjects has proven significant in improving students' English vocabulary mastery. This is evidenced by the data of an increase of 83.3% from the initial 66.7% after the application of the song method for 2 cycles of 4 meetings with a duration of 2x45 minutes each meeting. In cycle 1, the highest score was 95 and the lowest was 25, while the highest score in cycle 2 was 100 and the lowest was 50. The increase in the average score from cycle 1 to cycle 2 started from 76.7 to 87.3. This shows that, although the application of songs in English learning as an effort to improve English vocabulary mastery is effective, there are several factors that influence the results. Factors such as motivation, interest, active involvement of students during the learning process, as well as external factors such as the availability of learning media devices such as sound systems. However, the application of this learning method not only improves English vocabulary mastery, but also encourages student activity and interest in learning due to the application of songs in the learning process, thereby creating a more comfortable learning atmosphere, especially for students with an auditory learning style.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Afriyuninda, E., & Oktaviani, L. (2021). The Use of English Songs to Improve English Students' Listening Skills. Journal of English Language Teaching and Learning (JELTL), 2(2), 80–85.
Ali, HHH (2022). The Importance of the Four English Language Skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening in Teaching Iraqi Learners. Humanitarian and Natural Sciences Journal, 3(2). https://doi.org/10.53796/hnsj3210
Anggaira, AS, Aryanti, N., Suryadi, & Tusriyanto. (2022). Songs for Teaching Vocabulary: English Learning Media for Preschoolers. Jurnal Obsesi: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini, 6(6), 6069–6078. https://doi.org/10.31004/obsesi.v6i6.3254
Arief, A., & Isnan, F. (2020). Children Songs as A Learning Media Used in Increasing Student Motivation and Learning in Elementary School. International Journal of Visual and Performing Arts, 2(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.31763/viperarts.v2i1.54
Baird, D. E., & Fisher, M. (2005). Neomillennial User Experience Design Strategies: Utilizing Social Networking Media to Support “Always on” Learning Styles. Journal of Educational Technology Systems, 34(1), 5–32. https://doi.org/10.2190/6wmw-47l0-m81q-12g1
Bao, D. (2023). Exploring the impact of songs on student cognitive and emotional development. International Journal of Visual and Performing Arts, 5(2), 134–143. https://doi.org/10.31763/viperarts.v5i2.1217
Bauer, W.I. (2020). Music learning today: Digital pedagogy for creating, performing, and responding to music. Oxford University Press.
Br Sinulingga, J. (2021). Improving Students' Vocabulary Mastery Through English Songs in Grade VII-2 of SMP Negeri 2 Mardingding in the Odd Semester of the 2015/2016 Academic Year. ELT (English Language Teaching Prima Journal), 2(1), 24–59. https://doi.org/10.34012/eltp.v2i1.1460
Chen, C.-M., Liu, H., & Huang, H.-B. (2019). Effects of a mobile game-based English vocabulary learning app on learners' perceptions and learning performance: A case study of Taiwanese EFL learners. ReCALL, 31(2), 170–188. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344018000228
EF EPI, English Proficiency Index (2024). The largest ranking of English language proficiency in the world's largest countries and regions. EF EPI Indonesia. https://www.ef.co.id/epi/
EF EPI, English Proficiency Index (2024a). Trend EF EPI.h ttps://www.ef.co.id/epi/regions/asia/indonesia/
EF EPI, English Proficiency Index (2024b). EF EPI Trends Global Comparative Averages. https://www.ef.co.id/epi/regions/asia/indonesia/
Elbes, E. K., & Oktaviani, L. (2022). Character Building in English for Daily Conversation Class Materials for English Education Freshmen Students. Journal of English Language Teaching and Learning, 3(1), 36–45. https://doi.org/10.33365/jeltl.v3i1.1714
Fitria, TN (2023). A Library Research in English Education Research: A Guidance for Researchers in Writing Non-Research Articles. AAS Indonesia Institute of Business Technology National Seminar, 6(1), 2023.
Hameed, PFM (2020). Learner-Centered Language Learning Strategy in Digital Environment: Its Effect to Students' Vocabulary, Collaboration and Independence. TESOL International Journal, 15(4), 102–123.
Ibrohim, MMM, Supriadi, U., & Fakhruddin, A. (2025). Meaningful Learning Practices in Islamic Education: A Qualitative Exploration of Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation. Didaktika: Jurnal Kependidikan, 14(May 2), 2949–2960. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.58230/27454312.2469
Isnaini, S., & Aminatun, D. (2021). Do You Like Listening To Music?: Students' Thoughts

on Their Vocabulary Mastery Using English Songs. Journal of English Language Teaching and Learning, 2(2), 62–67. https://doi.org/10.33365/jeltl.v2i2.901
Iswara, DM, Damayanti, D., & A, PB (2024). English Language Ability of Students Based on Learning Patterns in Middle School. Karimah Tauhid, 3(3), 3297–3305. https://doi.org/10.30997/karimahtauhid.v3i3.12408
Karim, SA, Sudiro, S., Annisa, DR, Khairunnisa, HI, & Rahmawati, DA (2022). Enhancing Vocabulary Mastery Through English Songs: In the Eyes of EFL Students. Ethical Lingua, 9(2), 449–458. https://doi.org/10.30605/25409190.439
Kemmis, S., McTaggart, R., & Nixon, R. (2014). The Action Research Planner. Springer Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-4560-67-2
Kholid, MF, Rini, YP, & Winasari, BT (2024). Improving Vocabulary Mastery with English Kids' Songs: A Study in Primary Education. LinguaEducare: Journal of English and Linguistic Studies, 1(2), 71–82. https://doi.org/10.63324/lec.1v.2i.16
Kumar, T., Akhter, S., Yunus, M.M., & Shamsy, A. (2022). Use of Music and Songs as Pedagogical Tools in Teaching English as Foreign Language Contexts. Education Research International, 2022, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3384067
Lewin, K. (1946). Action Research and Minority Problems. Journal of Social Issues, 2(4), 34–46. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4560.1946.tb02295.x
Miles, M. B., Huberman, A. M., & Saldana, J. (2014). Qualitative Data Analysis (3rd ed.). SAGE Publications Inc. https://books.google.co.id/books?id=3CNrUbTu6CsC&printsec=frontcover&hl=id#v=onepage&q&f=false
Mu'arif, S. Abdullah, Syahra, RM, Saputro, S., Hadi, RN, & Mardani, D. (2025). The Effect of Using Children's Songs in Improving Arabic Vocabulary of MI Cibanoang Students. Wulang: Journal of Elementary School Teacher Education, 3(2), 30–44. https://doi.org/10.55656/wjp.v3i2.357
Ow, S.S., Poon, C.H., & Cheong, K.W. (2023). Cultivating 21st-Century Learning Skills: The Effectiveness of Song-based Music and Movement for Improving Children's Social Skills. Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 31(3), 1197–1218. https://doi.org/10.47836/pjssh.31.3.15
Purrohman, S.P. (2011). Classroom Action Research Alternative Research Activity for Teachers. Research Gate, June, 1–9. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326083037%0AClassroom
Putu Angellina Indah Iswari. (2024). The Implementation of Song-Based Learning to Improve Vocabulary in English Learning. Fonologi: Journal of English Language and Literature Scientists, 2(3), 54–63. https://doi.org/10.61132/fonologi.v2i3.835
Pocut, PJA, Rizqiyani, K., Banowati, G., Khoirunisa, PD, & Waliyadin. (2024). Teachers' Roles in Overcoming Junior High School Students' Lack of Motivation and Boredom in EFL Learning. IDEAS Journal of Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature, 12(1), 572–594. https://doi.org/10.24256/ideas.
Rahman, RW, Syarif, AR, & Tohamba, CPP (2024). Enhancing Vocabulary Through English Songs: A Self-Directed Learning Experience For EFL Students. CLASSICS: Journal of Education, Language Teaching and Science, 6(3), 864–882. https://doi.org/10.52208/klasikal.v6i3.1236
Rahmawati, DR, Wardani, DK, Noviani, L., & Yuliyanto, R. (2024). Moderating effect of self-regulation on the relationship between adversity quotient and family social support on academic procrastination in thesis completion. Psikohumaniora: Jurnal Penelitian Psikologi, 9(2), 195–214. https://doi.org/10.21580/pjpp.v9i2.21384
Rao, P. S. (2019). The Role of English as a Global Language. Research Journal of English (RJOE), 4(1), 65–79. www.rjoe.org.in
Razilu, Z. (2025). Learning Innovation: Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Technology (N. Mayasari (ed.); 1st ed.).
Riswalastika, E., Susanto, DA, & Suwarti, TS (2023). Using Pop-Up Books in E-Learning to Improve Students' Vocabulary Mastery. Edusia: Asian Scientific Journal of Education, 3(1), 15–27. https://doi.org/10.21154/edusia.v3i1.184
Rizaty, MA (2023). Data on the English Proficiency Level of the Indonesian Population (2020-2023). https://dataindonesia.id/varia/detail/data-tingkat-kecakapan-bahasa-inggris-penduduk-indonesia-20202023
Rohmah, N., & Indah, RN (2021). The Use of Modified English Songs to Improve Vocabulary. Journal of English Language Teaching, 121–129. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22460/eltin.v9i2.p121-129
Rorintulus, OA, & Wuntu, CN (2023). Exploring the Effectiveness of Songs for Learning Improvement: A Case of Elementary Level Students' English Skills. Edumaspul: Journal of Education, 7(2), 3336–3349. https://doi.org/10.33487/edumaspul.v7i2.6913
Rusmanayanti, A. (2019). Songs From YouTube as an Alternative Media Innovation. GEEJ: Getsempena English Education Journal, 6(1), 143–155. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.46244/geej.v6i1.862
Sadiqzade, Z. (2024). The Impact of Music on Language Learning: A Harmonious Path to Mastery. EuroGlobal Journal of Linguistics and Language Education, 1(1), 134–140. https://doi.org/10.69760/zma1bn56
Siti Anisah, Hesty Widiastuty, & Misda Amallia Tuah Aji. (2024). The Use of the Song "I See the Light" to Enrich English Vocabulary at MTS Terpadu Berkah Palangka Raya in the Community Service Program. Panggung Kebaikan: Journal of Social Service, 1(4), 95–103. https://doi.org/10.62951/panggungkebaikan.v1i4.772
Sumerjaya, IG (2022). Improving Learning Outcomes of English Vocabulary Mastery on Parts of the Body Material Through Song Media for Grade IV Students of Widiatmika Elementary School. Jurnal Citra Pendidikan, 2(2), 493–501. https://doi.org/10.38048/jcp.v2i2.712
Supiarza, H., & Sarbeni, I. (2021). Teaching and Learning Music in the Digital Era: Creating Keroncong Music for Gen Z Students Through Interpreting Poetry. Harmonia: Journal of Arts Research and Education, 21(1), 123–139. https://doi.org/10.15294/harmonia.v21i1.28585
Suryanto, & Sari, ZE (2021). Difficulties and Strategies in Learning English: An Analysis of Students From English and Non-English Education Department in Indonesia. Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Sustainable Innovation 2020–Social, Humanity, and Education (ICoSIHESS 2020). https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.210120.140
Taqwiem, A. (2024). Transformation of Digital Breakthrough Media in Indonesian Language and Literature Learning.
Theerapan, S. (2025). Song composition for early childhood music teaching activities. Rast Müzikoloji Dergisi , 13(2), 141–160. https://doi.org/10.12975/rastmd.20251323
Tuhfatul Mubarokah Assalamah. (2024). Enhancing English Learning for Elementary Students Through Children's Songs. Sintaksis: Publication of English Language and Literature Experts, 2(4), 319–334. https://doi.org/10.61132/sintaksis.v2i4.957
Whisnubrata, AAAA (2024). The Use of Music and Songs in English Learning to Improve Vocabulary Understanding. Journal of Community Service, 3(12), 2329–2336.
Wahyuni, NS, Nanda, DW, & Efendi, R. (2024). Development of video song-based learning media on English speaking skills phase E students at SMAN 1 Pulau Punjung. Research in Education and Technology (REGY), 2(2), 60–68. https://journalregy.com/index.php/uvw/article/view/103
Werner, V. (2020). “Song-advantage” or “cost of singing”?: A research synthesis of classroom-based intervention studies applying lyrics-based language teaching (1972–2019). Journal of Second Language Teaching and Research, 8, 138–170. https://fis.uni-bamberg.de/handle/uniba/49313

Yuliarini, NLE (2022). The Use of Song in Improving Students' Listening Skills. Indonesian Journal of Educational Research and Review, 5(2), 226–233. https://doi.org/10.23887/ijerr.v5i2.48760
Yusron, A., Irawati, J., Teguh Setiawan Wibowo, Husen, & Sudadi. (2023). The Impact of Classroom Action Research (CAR) and Innovation on Teacher Professionalism: An Intervention of Competence. Journal of Business Economics Informatics, 563–570. https://doi.org/10.37034/infeb.v5i2.594
Published
2025-08-20
How to Cite
UTAMI, Millen Rahmanisha; TARIDI, Muhammad; FADILLAH, Nisaul. Enhancing Vocabulary in English Learning through Songs in Senior High School. JESS (Journal of Education on Social Science), [S.l.], v. 9, n. 2, p. 146 - 156, aug. 2025. ISSN 2550-0147. Available at: <http://jess.ppj.unp.ac.id/index.php/JESS/article/view/623>. Date accessed: 08 sep. 2025. doi: https://doi.org/10.24036/jess.v9i2.623.