THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WORDWALL MEDIA ON INCREASING STUDENTS’ SPEAKING ABILITY ON DESCRIBING PEOPLE AT SMP NEGERI 1 JATIBARANG

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the interactive digital media Wordwall in improving students’ speaking skills, particularly in describing a person. A quasi-experimental method was employed, involving two eighth-grade classes at SMP Negeri 1 Jatibarang, each consisting of 34 students. The experimental class (8G) received treatment using Wordwall media, while the control class (8F) was taught using conventional teaching methods. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and interviews. The paired sample t-test analysis showed a significant improvement in speaking skills in the experimental class after the treatment. Furthermore, the independent sample t-test results revealed a significant difference between the post-test scores of the experimental and control classes (Sig. < 0.001), indicating the effectiveness of Wordwall media. Interviews with 20 students from the experimental class revealed that comprehension and vocabulary aspects showed the highest improvement, while fluency remained the most challenging aspect. Therefore, it can be concluded that Wordwall media is effective in enhancing students’ speaking skills, encouraging active engagement, and reducing speaking anxiety. Teachers are encouraged to integrate interactive digital media into English language teaching to optimize student learning outcomes.