International Journal Of Literature And Languages
31
https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijll
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue04 2025
PAGE NO.
31-33
10.37547/ijll/Volume05Issue04-09
The Benefits of Using Songs in Teaching English As A
Foreign Language
Dilnura Gafforova
Student of Bukhara State Pedagogical Institute, Uzbekistan
Received:
18 February 2025;
Accepted:
16 March 2025;
Published:
17 April 2025
Abstract:
This study addresses the benefits of using music in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).
According to research, integrating songs into English lessons is one of the most effective methods for teaching a
second language. This is because music enhances various aspects of learning including linguistics, cognition,
culture, and motivation. Furthermore, it creates a more dynamic and engaging classroom environment making
language acquisition both interesting and effective.
Keywords:
TEFL, melodies, pronunciation, cognitive skills, language proficiency, multi-sensory language learning,
verbal expression, kinesthetic learner.
Introduction:
It is widely accepted that English has
become the world`s dominant language and leading to
a significant rise in the number of students eager to
learn it. As the demand for English proficiency
continues to grow, teaching methodologies must
evolve accordingly to ensure effective learning
acquisition. Studies highlight many techniques
including the integration of online tools, lecture-based
lessons, peer-teaching and etc. Among these,
incorporating songs into English is considered one of
the most engaging and productive methods. The main
reason of it is music enhances multiple aspects of
language learning making the process more interactive
and enjoyable.
Firstly, incorporating music into learning process can
significantly enhance vocabulary acquisition as
students are expose to new vocabularies, phrases and
their usage while listening to English songs. In this way,
they can learn word expressions and understand how
to use them in different context with correct meanings
which improves their overall proficiency in the second
language. In addition, music serves as an effective tool
for refining pronunciation by exposing students to
natural speech patterns, encouraging imitation,
reinforcing phonetic accuracy through rhythmic
repetition. In other words, music act as authentic
source of pronunciation including stress, rhythm, and
intonation patterns. As students try to sing along, they
start to imitate the rhythm, apply stress as it is naturally
used by singer and gradually achieve a high
pronunciation fluency. Listening to native singers can
help students recognize and internalize the natural
flow of speech.
At the same time, music can be a highly beneficial tool
strengthening listening skills. It is evident that
nowadays many young people listen to music in their
spare time and a significant number of them prefer
English songs. This increases their exposure to language
and strengthens their connection to it. In this way,
students can make productive use of their leisure time.
Through regular listening, they begin to recognize
different accents and speech patterns, making the
process more enjoyable and engaging. Additionally,
music can serve as a valuable source for developing
grammar skills as it enables learners to improve their
grammar understanding. More specifically, song lyrics
often reflect real-life sentence structures, requiring
listeners comprehend and interpret meaning
simultaneously. As a result, music not only entertains
but also contributes high level of linguistic proficiency
in a second language.
Secondly, songs and melodies not only boost students`
linguistic education but also they play a crucial role in
their cognitive development. For example, repetitive
nature of songs can enhance memory and retention as
lyrics naturally consist of repetition of the words and
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
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https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijll
International Journal Of Literature And Languages (ISSN: 2771-2834)
phrases, in turn, it enhances memory by embedding
vocabulary and grammar into rhythm and melody
making them easier to recall. One of the significant
advantages of using songs in teaching English is that it
engages multiple learning styles simultaneously. In a
typical classroom each student has different
preference in how they absorb and retain new
information. Some of them are audio learners, meaning
they learn best through listening. Others are visual
learners, who prefer reading and seeing words while
some are kinesthetic learners, who understand better
through movement and physical activity.
Songs can infuse all these learning styles. When
students listen to a song their auditory skills are
activated. When they read the lyrics, it supports visual
learning. And they sing along it includes movement and
verbal expression, which is useful for kinesthetic
learners. By combining listening, reading, and singing,
songs create a multi-sensory learning environment that
helps students to stay engaged and better remember
what they learn. Another advantage of using music in
education is the positive atmosphere it can create
during teaching and learning process. Obviously,
providing
an
engaging
learning
environment
considered as an important aspect as it motivates
students to do their utmost and can help alleviate
stress and protect from other distractions making the
process more effective and enjoyable.
Furthermore, in order to achieve high level of
proficiency, consistent exposure to English on a daily
basis is essential for every student. In this regard,
incorporating songs into learning process can be a
highly effective method for promoting faster language
processing. The more learners listen to English songs,
the more frequently they encounter new vocabularies
allowing them to recognize and recall words more
quickly due to increased familiarity.
Moreover, songs offer significant motivational and
psychological advantages. Teachers can enhance
engagement by playing students` favorite songs at the
beginning of class, helping to create fun and interactive
learning atmosphere that encourages participation. In
other words, melodies can be used as a means of
attraction and motivation. Coupled with this, allowing
learners to sing together in groups help build
confidence in using the language while also reducing
anxiety often associated with speaking in a second
language. These techniques contribute to a positive,
relaxed learning environment, making lessons more
enjoyable and effective. Finally, lyrics can foster a
personal connection to the language enhancing
emotional engagement and motivation.
When it comes to cultural and social benefits, music
can enrich students` cultural awareness. More
specifically, incorporating songs into language lessons
can introduce learners to English-speaking traditions
and lifestyles in a highly engaging and meaningful way.
Historically, music has served as a vehicle for preserving
and transmitting a nation`s cultural heritage. Besides,
group singing or discussions about lyrics promote
communication among students encouraging them to
express their ideas and opinions more freely
—
reducing feelings of shyness or introversion. On top of
that, one of the most critical advantages of music is its
ability to broaden students` horizon, shift their
worldview, enhance their general knowledge, and
deepen their understanding of art and culture, as
different genres expose learners to diverse
perspectives.
Overall, as the dominance of English language
continues to grow worldwide, the demand for learning
and teaching this language shows no signs of decline.
While acquiring a foreign language as a second or third
language is never an easy task there are various
effective methods that support language acquisition
—
such as integration of online tolls, lecture-based
lessons, collaborative learning strategies, and the use
of songs. Among these, music stands out as one of the
most popular and beneficial tools in teaching English as
a foreign language. It enables students to improve their
language skills in multiple ways: expanding vocabulary,
reinforcing grammar, improving memory, boosting
motivation, and fostering cultural and historical
awareness. This study firmly believes that with
dedication and the integration diverse strategies into
learning process, students overcome any challenges
and ultimately achieve a high level of proficiency in
their second language.
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