The Effect of Riddle Game Strategy on Students’ Vocabulary Mastery At SMP Negeri 3 Pematangsiantar

Abstract

Vocabulary is a fundamental component of language acquisition, serving as the building block for communication skills such as speaking, writing, listening, and reading. However, many Indonesian students face challenges in mastering English vocabulary due to monotony in teaching methods and anxiety. This study aims to investigate the effect of the Riddle Game Strategy on students’ vocabulary mastery. The research employed a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest-post-test model. The population of this study consisted of eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 3 Pematangsiantar in the academic year 2025/2026, totalling 450 students. A purposive sampling technique was utilized to select class VIII-5, comprising 31 students, as the sample. The data were collected through pre-test and post-test instruments. The findings indicate a significant difference in students' vocabulary scores before and after the treatment. The Riddle Game Strategy proved effective in creating an enjoyable learning atmosphere, enhancing motivation, and facilitating active vocabulary retention. Therefore, it is concluded that the Riddle Game Strategy has a significant positive effect on students' vocabulary mastery