The Influence f Joining English Club Toward Studets Speaking Ability at 8TH Grade in UPTD SMP Negeri 6 Pematang Siantar

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the influence of joining English Club on students' speaking ability at the eighth grade of UPTD SMP Negeri 6 Pematangsiantar. The research method used was quantitative, involving 30 randomly selected students. Data were collected through questionnaires, speaking tests, and interviews. The results showed that 73.3% of students had moderate to high participation in English Club activities, while most students' speaking ability was categorized as good, with a mean score of 19.17. A simple linear regression test revealed a significant influence, with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.961 and R² of 0.924, indicating that 92.4% of students' speaking ability could be explained by their participation in the English Club. The interview results supported these findings, showing that most students felt more confident and motivated in speaking English. This study concludes that English Club activities play a crucial role in enhancing students' speaking skills in a positive and meaningful way