THE EFFECT OF ENGLISH SONGS ON STUDENT’S VOCABULARY AT THE SECOND GRADE OF SMA N 2 MUKOMUKO

This research investigates the influence of English songs on the vocabulary of students in the
second grade of SMA N 2 Mukomuko. Using a quasi-experimental design, this study
compared the vocabulary development of students who listened to English songs
(experimental group) with those who received conventional teaching (control group). Both
groups were given a pre-test and post-test to measure changes in vocabulary proficiency. The
experimental group listened to selected English songs during three teaching sessions, while
the control group received traditional exercises without musical elements. Findings showed
that although both groups showed vocabulary improvements, the control group achieved
slightly higher mean scores. Statistical analysis with the Mann-Whitney U test (p = 0.002)
confirmed significant differences between groups, and preferred conventional methods over
songs for structured vocabulary results. However, English songs increased student
engagement and motivation, thus underscoring their value as an additional tool for
vocabulary learning. These results indicate that although English songs can effectively
increase interest and understanding of some vocabulary, traditional exercises can provide
better results for appropriate vocabulary mastery in academic contexts.
Keywords: English songs, vocabulary mastery, student motivation