This thesis explores the dynamic intersection of language acquisition and multimedia education by investigating students' perceptions of using captions in short cartoon movies to improve incidental vocabulary learning. Focused on 11th- grade students in Semarang, the study aims to uncover how captions influence vocabulary acquisition and contribute to language proficiency. Using a straightforward approach, the study combines surveys and interviews to gather insights. The survey findings show that most participants agree that captions help them understand new words, grasp content better, and enjoy learning. Based on the questionnaire result, there were 70% students’ chose Strongly Agree and 30% students’ chose Agree. The interviews confirm these findings, offering more details about how captions boost confidence and motivation. Students’ see captions as a way to connect words with meanings, making learning more engaging. They also find that captions build their confidence and excitement for learning. The study emphasizes the significant role captions play in creating a lively learning environment. The study concludes that using captions in short cartoon movies is a valuable tool for vocabulary improvement and language learning. Apart from learning words, captions encourage active participation and make the learning experience more enjoyable. Educators can use this insight to make language learning more engaging and effective by incorporating captions in educational materials.

Keywords: Captions, Incidental Vocabulary, Short Cartoon Movies