Bilingual : Jurnal Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris
Bilingual is academic journal published by English Department FKIP Universitas Simalungun. Bilingual dedicated to research on education, teaching and linguistic of English as a second of foreign language. It presents information and ideas on theories, research, methods and materials related to language learning and teaching. The journal welcomes submissions on course design, teaching materials, teacher training, teaching methods, language assessment, bilingual education, as well as from the fields of sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and other related areas. The journal welcomes contributions that have in mind the common professional concerns of both the practitioner and the researcher, providing a bridge between theory and practice
Program Studi Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris FKIP
The Influnce Of Using Role Play Technique On Student Speaking Ability In Grade 7 At SMP Negeri 7 Pematang Siantar
The purpose of this research is to find out the effect of using Role Play Technique on students’ speaking ability at the seventh grade of SMP Negeri 7 Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a true experimental design. The population of this research was seventh grade students consisting of two classes, namely the experimental class (VII-2) and the control class (VII-3), with a total of 64 students. The sample was taken using a total sampling technique. The data were collected through pre-test and post-test. The experimental class was taught by using Role Play Technique, while the control class was taught by using the conventional method. The data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0. The results of the research showed that the mean score of the experimental class in the post-test (73.38) was higher than the control class (65.97). Furthermore, the hypothesis testing showed that t-count = 52.531 > t-table = 1.671 at the significance level of 0.05, which means that H0 was rejected and H1 was accepted.Therefore, it can be concluded that there is a significant effect of using Role Play Technique on students’ speaking ability. The use of Role Play Technique is effective in improving students’ speaking performance at the seventh grade of SMP Negeri 7 Pematangsiantar
Copyright (c) 2026 Lisna Wati Zalukhu, Tiodora Silalahi, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Identification Of Student’s Speaking Anxiety in Madrasah Aliyah Al-Wasliyah Pematangsiantar 2026
Speaking remains the most challenging skill in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) acquisition, largely due to affective barriers such as anxiety. This research aims to identify and describe the phenomenon of speaking anxiety among Grade XI students at Madrasah Aliyah Al-Washliyah Pematangsiantar. Employing a mixed-method descriptive design, the research utilized a triangulation of instruments: a Likert-scale questionnaire adapted from the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS), semi-structured interviews, and classroom observations. The participants consisted of 30 students for the survey phase, with 12 students purposefully selected for in-depth interviews. The quantitative analysis reveals a pervasive issue: 96.7% of students experience speaking anxiety, with exactly half (50%) categorized as having High Anxiety. Qualitative analysis identifies Fear of Negative Evaluation as the dominant dimension, driven by a "judgmental classroom culture" where peers laugh, boo, or imitate mistakes. Physiological manifestations such as heart palpitations (100%) and cognitive blocks like "mind going blank" (66.6%) were prevalent. The research concludes that speaking anxiety in this context is socially constructed, exacerbated by an unsupportive classroom atmosphere. The findings suggest that pedagogical interventions must transcend linguistic drills to address the psychological and social safety of the students.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marlando Hasiholan Simbolon, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Bismar Sibuea (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing Listening Comprehension by Using Edpuzzle Application at SMP Taman Siswa Pematangsiantar
The aim of this research is to find out the effectiveness of using EdPuzzle application in enhancing listening comprehension at the eighth grade students of SMP Taman Siswa Pematangsiantar. This was a research with quantitative approach. The method in this research was a pre-experimental design, specifically a one one-group pre-test and post-test design. The population of this research were students of eighth grade SMP Taman Siswa Pematangsiantar in academic year 2025/2026, which consisted of 3 classes with a total of 72 students. One class was taken as the sample of eighth grade at junior high school, consisting of 24 students. The technique used in sampling is simple random sampling technique. It was used the listening test for the instrument and the data was analyzed using SPSS 27 through 4 steps, namely frequency test, statistical table test, normality test and hypothesis test. Based on the data of the analysis, it could be concluded that hypothesis testing of pre-test and post-test scores. It is found that tcount = 24,582 > ttable = 2,064 at the significance level a = 0,05 and degrees of freedom (df) = 23, null hypothesis (H0) is rejected and alternative hypothesis (Ha) is accepted. It means that there are significantly differences on students’ comprehension by using EdPuzzle application and without using EdPuzzle application in enhancing listening comprehension at eitght grade of SMP Taman Siswa Pematangsiantar
Copyright (c) 2026 Farhan Ammar, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Marhaeni K.D Matondang (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Using Short Stories on Students Reading Comprehension at SMP Muhammadiyah-19 Pematangsiantar
The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of using short stories on students’ reading comprehension at the eighth grade of SMP Muhammadiyah-19 Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design. The population of this research consisted of eighth grade students of SMP Muhammadiyah-19 Pematangsiantar, and the samples were two classes: one experimental class (VIII-1) and one control class (VIII-2), each consisting of 25 students. The technique of collecting data was pre-test and post-test, and the data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The result of the research showed that the post-test score was higher than the pre-test score after the treatment using short stories. Based on the result of hypothesis testing, Tcount was higher than Ttable at the significance level α = 0.05, which indicates that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted. It means that there was a significant effect of using short stories on students’ reading comprehension. Therefore, the researcher concludes that short stories are effective in improving students’ reading comprehension because they provide interesting reading materials, increase students’ motivation in learning, and help students understand narrative texts more easily
Copyright (c) 2026 Aminah Madhani, Ridwin Purba, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Using Picture Media on Students’ Skill in Writing Descriptive Text at The Seventh Grade Of SMP YPK Pematangsiantar
The purpose of this research is to find out the application of using picture media for improving the students’ skill in writing descriptive text at the seventh grade of SMP YPK Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a true experimental design. The population of this research was seventh grade students consisting of 42 students from 2 classes, and all were used as the sample through saturated sampling technique. The data collection technique was pre-test and post-test. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. The result of the research showed that the hypothesis testing of post-test control class and post-test experimental class shows that tcount = 5.768 > ttable = 1.724. This means that H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted. The post-test score was significantly higher than the pre-test score, indicating that the use of picture media effectively improved students' skill in writing descriptive texts. The result of this research showed that the using of picture media was effective for improving students' skill in writing descriptive text at the seventh grade students of SMP Pematangsiantar
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Afni Chairani Lubis, Bismar Sibuea, Tiodora Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Challenges Faced by English Teachers in Developing Teaching Professionalism at SMKN 1 Tebing Tinggi
This study examines the challenges faced by English teachers in developing their teaching professionalism at SMKN 1 Tebing Tinggi. It applies a qualitative research design using observation, interviews, and questionnaires. The findings show that teachers face several challenges such as time limitations, low student motivation, limited facilities, too high workload, lack of training opportunities, and curriculum changes. Despite these challenges, teachers make efforts through self-learning, collaboration, and reflective practice. This study contributes to understanding teachers professional development in vocational schools and suggests improving institutional support
Copyright (c) 2026 Ulfa Nazifa, Natanael Saragih, Bismar Sibuea (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Students’ Anxiety in Speaking English During Classroom Activities in The Seventh Grade of SMP YPK Pematangsiantar
The purpose of this research is (1) to find out and describe students' anxiety in speaking English during Classroom activities, and (2) to find out the factors that caused the students’ anxiety in speaking English during Classroom activities in the seventh grade of SMP YPK Pematangsiantar. This research used a qualitative approach with a qualitative descriptive method. The subject and the sample of this research were the seventh grade of SMP YPK Pematangsiantar. The data collection techniques in this research were video, interviews, and questionnaires. The data analysis techniques that applied in this research were data reduction, data display, conclusion drawing and verification. The result of this research showed that (1)The types of student’s anxiety found in speaking English are communication apprehension, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety. The dominant type of students' anxiety is communication apprehension because most students felt nervous, hesitant, and lacked confidence when they had to speak English in front of the class or communicate directly in English during learning activities, and (2) The factors of students’ anxiety in speaking English are psychological factors, linguistic factors, and classroom factors. The dominant factor is psychological factors
Copyright (c) 2026 Yanti Yolanda Nababan, Tiodora Fermiska Silalahi, Mardin Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Influence f Joining English Club Toward Studets Speaking Ability at 8TH Grade in UPTD SMP Negeri 6 Pematang Siantar
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
Copyright (c) 2025 Mahdania Salsabila, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Semaria Eva Elita Girsang (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Analysis of Vocabulary Mastery to Improve in Speaking Skill at SMPN 4 Pematangsiantar
This research aims to analyze the role of vocabulary mastery in improving students’ speaking skills at SMPN 4 Pematangsiantar. Speaking is a crucial language skill that enables students to communicate effectively, and vocabulary plays a fundamental role in supporting this ability. The method used in this study is descriptive qualitative, involving interviews with English teachers, questionnaires to students, and a simple speaking test. The participants were two English teachers and three students selected purposively. The findings indicate that vocabulary mastery significantly contributes to students' speaking performance, especially in fluency, accuracy, and confidence. Teachers affirmed that without adequate vocabulary knowledge, students struggle to express ideas clearly. Moreover, students who had higher vocabulary mastery showed better performance in speaking tests. This study emphasizes the importance of vocabulary instruction as a foundation for developing speaking skills in English learning
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Izzaty Firdaus, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Bismar Sibuaea (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Analysis of Learning Method in Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka by Mandiri Belajar at Eleventh Grade of SMK Swasta Prama Artha
This research aims to find out the effect of extensive reading on vocabulary mastery at the eighth grade SMP Y.P Keluarga Pematangsiantar. This research used quantitative with true-experimental method approach. Population of this research was eighth grade with 3 classes which consists of 82 students and the sample of this research was 52 students in two class. The technique of collecting data was pre-test and post-test. The technique of analyzing data by using SPSS version 21.0. The result of research was Tcount (16.932) > Ttable (4.382) at the significance level α = 0.05 with the degrees of freedom (df) = 26. It means that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted. Based on the evidence from the research results, the post-test has a higher score than the pre-test. From these results it was concluded that there was a significant difference in Vocabulary Mastery before and after being given treatment using Extensive Reading as a learning method. Therefore, the Writer believes that using Extensive Reading utilized to be used on the students' Vovcabulary mastery at eighth grade of SMP Y.P Keluarga Pematangsiantar. Because the use of Extensive Reading as a method for vocabulary mastery is highly effective. Extensive Reading positively influences students’ reading skill for Vocabulary Mastery, and engagement in the learning process. Therefore, Extensive Reading can be considered an effective and enjoyable teaching strategy for improving vocabulary Mastery among junior high school students
Copyright (c) 2025 Lia Yohana Kristiani Damanik, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Marhaeni K D Matondang (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Implementation of Mastery Learning Model to Improve Students’ Reading Skills of Grade VII at MTS Al - Hikmah Marihat Bandar
This research aims to evaluate the Mastery Learning Model in improving students’ reading skills. The study was conducted at MTs Al-Hikmah Marihat Bandar and involved 56 seventh-grade students, divided into two groups: the experimental group and the control group, with 28 students in each. The research employed a true experimental quantitative method using a pre-test and post-test design. The experimental group was taught using the Mastery Learning model, while the control group received conventional instruction. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, including tests of normality, homogeneity, ANOVA, and paired sample t-test. The findings showed that the post-test mean score of the experimental group (87.29) was significantly higher than that of the control group (74.86). The results of ANOVA and t-test indicated a significant difference between the two groups, with Fₕ = 40.142 > Fₜ = 4.02 and tₕ = 6.061 > tₜ = 1.703. Based on these results, the null hypothesis (H₀) is rejected and the hypothesis (Hₐ) is accepted. This confirms that the Mastery Learning model can improve students’ reading skills
Copyright (c) 2025 Aulia Saputri, Tiodora Fermiska Silalahi, Mardin Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improving Speaking Skill by Debate Method aT Grade 8 SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 21 Serbelawan
The purpose of this research is to find out the application of Debate methode for improving the students’ achievement in speaking skill at the eighth grade of SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 21 Serbelawan. This research used a quantitative approach with a true experimental method design. The population of this research was eighth grade students consisting of 64 students from 2 classes, and all were used as the sample through saturated sampling technique. The data collection technique was pre-test and post-test. The result of the research showed that the hypothesis testing of post-test control class and post-test experimental class shows that tcount = 5,409 > ttable = 1,695. So, the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected and alternative hypothesis (Ha) was accepted. It means that the application of debate method to improve students’ achievement in speaking skill was significant. The treatment involved explaining what a debate is, types of debates, and how to express a good opinion. After giving examples on topics like the internet, full-day school, and government, students were asked to express their opinions about TikTok's influence. After students were able to express their opinions confidently, they debated on topics such as social media and online games, arguing for or against their effects. Based on the analysis, there was improvement in fluency, confidence, and critical thinking. Students were able to express their arguments more clearly and organize their ideas logically. Though some minor mistakes remained, their overall speaking performance showed significant progress. The findings suggest that the debate method is an effective strategy for improving speaking skills
Eighth Grade Students Debate Method, English Learning
Copyright (c) 2025 Indah Miranti Oktavia, Marhaeni K D Matondang, Mardin Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effect of Using Pictionary Games on Improving Speaking Skill of Grade Eighth Students in SMP YPAK PTPN 3 Gunung Para Dolok Merawan
This study aims to determine the effect of using Pictionary game in improving the speaking skill of students in class VIII of SMP YPAK PTPN 3 Gunung Para Dolok Merawan. This research used quantitative method with true-experimental method approach. The population of this study were VIII grade students consisting of 3 classes consisting of 134 students and the sample of this study were 86 students consisting of two classes. The data collection techniques used were pre-test and post-test. Data analysis techniques using SPSS version 27.0. The results showed that tcount (5.205) > ttable (1.681) at the significance level α = 0.05 with degrees of freedom (df) = 42. This means that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted. Based on evidence from the research results, the post-test has a higher value than the pre-test. From these results, it is concluded that there is a significant difference in improving students' speaking skill before and after being given treatment by using Pictionary game media as learning media. Therefore, researchers believe that the use of Pictionary Game can be used to improve the speaking skill of students in grade VIII of SMP YPAK PTPN 3 Gunung Para Dolok Merawan. Because the use of Pictionary Game as a learning media for English speaking skill is very effective. Pictionary game media has a positive influence on students' speaking skill by increasing students' creativity and involvement in the learning process. Therefore, Pictionary game can be considered as an effective and fun teaching strategy to improve speaking skill
Copyright (c) 2025 Nanda Dwi Yulizar, Natanael Saragih, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Teachers’ Learning Strategies in Teaching Reading Skill at The Eleventh Grade of SMA Yayasan Perguruan Keluarga
The purpose of this research is to find out the teacher’s learning strategy in teaching reading skill at eleventh grade students of SMA Yayasan Perguruan Keluarga. This was research with qualitative approach. The design is case study. The informan were two English teachers of the eleventh grade of SMA Yayasan Perguruan Keluarga. The technique of collecting data in this research is by doing observation, recording, and interview. The data analysis result showed that the English teachers applied two strategies, namely QAR (Question Answer Relationship) and scaffolding in teaching reading skill as the main strategies or the dominant. It could be happened because with QAR strategy can make the students to think before the answer a question, and the question also have the connection with a text, so the student would be easy to answer the question, they also can see the answer based on the text that they read before
Copyright (c) 2025 Kristiyani Debora, Mardin Silalahi, Rohdearni Wati Sipayung (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Application of Group Discussion Method to Improvr the Students’ Achievement on Speaking Skills of Seventh Grade at SMPN 4 Pematangsiantar
This research aims to find out the effect of using group discussion on students’ speaking skill at the seventh grade of SMPN 4 Pematangsiantar. This research quantitative with true- experimental method approach. Population of this research was seventh grade with 10 classes which consist of 313 students. And the sample of this research was 64 students in two classes. The technique of collecting data was pre-test and post-test. The technique of analyzing data by using SPSS version 25.0. The result of research was T count (4.553) > T table (1.695) at the significance level α = 0.05 with the degree of freedom (df) = 31. It means that H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted. The post-test score was significantly higher than the pre-test score, indicating that the use of group discussion effectively improves students’ speaking skill. It could be happened that group discussion can be successfully utilized as a learning tool to enhance their confident and teamwork in learning process by giving them stimulation, correcting their pronunciation and also finding the unfamiliar words during teaching. Therefore, group discussion can be considered an effective and enjoyable teaching method for improving speaking skill among junior high school students.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dian Dipa Pratiwi, Natanael Saragih, Mardin Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring Students’ Perceptions and Motivation in Learning English: A Survey of Non - English Major Students
English language proficiency has become increasingly essential for non-English major students, both academically and professionally. This study investigates perception and motivation that drive non-English major students to learn English, the internal and external factors influencing their motivation, and the dominant factor motivating them to learn English. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected through a structured questionnaire from undergraduate students at Program Studi Pendidikan Pancasila dan Kewarganegaraan, Universitas Negeri Makassar. The findings reveal that intrinsic motivation such as enjoyment, curiosity, and satisfaction in learning; emerged as the dominant factor, with 95% of students expressing enjoyment in learning English. Extrinsic factors like academic performance, career prospects, and social expectations also significantly influenced motivation. Moreover, students generally perceived themselves as competent in understanding classroom content but showed lower confidence in communicative skills. Many reported autonomous behaviours, such as setting goals and practicing independently. These results underscore the importance of fostering both internal interest and practical application through engaging and supportive instruction. Future research is recommended to explore motivational changes over time and the impact of interactive learning environments on communicative competence
Copyright (c) 2025 Citra Dwi Safitri, Andi Kamariah, Nur Qalbi Rustan, Musdalifah Musdalifah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Influence of Cognitive Strategies in Student’s Reading Comprehension at Yayasan Perguruan Keluarga
This research aims to determine the effect of cognitive strategies on students' reading ability. Cognitive strategies are learning approaches that involve mental processes such as remembering, understanding, and applying the information learned. This study uses a quantitative method with a quasi-experimental design. The subjects of this study were senior high school Yayasan Perguruan Keluarga, students who were divided into an experimental group and a control group whose population consisted of two classes, each class containing 30 students, so that the population was 60 students. The instruments used included a reading ability test and an observation sheet for the application of cognitive strategies by providing 20 multiple-choice questions. Pre-tests and post-tests were conducted on the experimental and control class groups. And the data results were calculated using SPSS 26.00. The results of the data analysis showed that there was a significant difference between the group that used cognitive strategies and the group that did not use them. Students who were taught with cognitive strategies showed better reading abilities, especially in terms of reading comprehension and reading speed. These findings indicate that cognitive strategies have a positive effect on improving students' reading abilities, so it is recommended to be applied in the language learning process
Copyright (c) 2025 Rona Insani Sipayung, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Ridwin Purba (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improving Listening Skills by Using Folklore Through Audio Media at The Eight Grade of MTS Mesra Pematangsiantar
This research aims to find out the effect of using folklore through audio media improve students’ listening skills at the eighth grade of MTs Mesra Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a true experimental method design. The population of this research was eighth grade students consisting of 307 from 10 classes, and the sample consists of class VIII-I and class VIII-II, which were selected using a lottery through simple random sampling technique. The data collection technique was pre-test and post-test. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. The result of the hypothesis testing of post-test control class and post-test experimental class shows that that tcount = 3,231 > ttable = 1,695. So, the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected and alternative hypothesis (Ha) was accepted. It means that the using folklore through audio media can improve students’ listening skills was significant. This can happen because the researcher provided a lesson that involves the use of audio media featuring the folktale 'Batu Gantung', accompanied by pre-listening activities. These activities included introducing the story, explaining difficult words, posing prediction questions, and guiding students to focus on story elements while listening. After listening, students completed a worksheet, participated in small group discussions, and wrote a summary of the story in their own words. This treatment encouraged active student engagement in understanding the story content, which positively impacted their listening skills
Copyright (c) 2025 Bismar Sibuea, Mardin Silalahi, Ayu Warda Ningsih (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Use of Video Based Learning to Improve Students Vocabulary in Grade Eleventh of SMA YPK Pematang Siantar
This research investigates the effectiveness of Video Based Learning in enhancing vocabulary acquisition among eleventh-grade students at SMA YPK Pematang Siantar. The study employs a true experimental design with a quantitative approach, involving pre-test and post-test assessments to measure vocabulary improvement. Thirty-two students from class XI IPS 1 were selected as the sample. The data were collected through multiple-choice vocabulary tests and analyzed using SPSS 26.0. Findings reveal a significant increase in students' vocabulary scores after the implementation of video-based instruction, with the mean score rising from 70.47 (pre-test) to 87.34 (post-test). Statistical analysis confirms the effectiveness of the treatment, with a t-count of 7.678 exceeding the critical value. The results support the use of multimedia, particularly videos, as a powerful tool to enhance vocabulary learning through contextual, auditory, and visual reinforcement. This method not only improved students’ vocabulary mastery but also increased their engagement and confidence in language use.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fadlal Fajduani, Marhaeni K D Matondang, Tiodora Fermiska Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Analysis of English Teacher Strategies to Improve Students Speaking Ability at SMP YP Keluarga Pematangsiantar
This research aims to analyze the strategies used by English teachers to improve students speaking ability at SMP YP Keluarga Pematangsiantar. The participants of this research are two English teachers who teach in grades 7th and 8th. The research was conducted using a qualitative descriptive method. The subjects of this research were two English teacher who teach in SMP YP Keluarga Pematangsiantar. Data were collected through interview with two English teachers and observation in the classroom. The data of this research were observation sheet and interview transcript. The data were analysed by using data display, data reduction, and conclusion drawing proposed by Sugiono. The result of this research, the researcher identified three strategies apply by teachers to improve students speaking ability, namely discussion strategy, roleplay strategy, and storytelling strategy. The discussion strategy help students to express their ideas, listen to other students, and think critically. The roleplay strategy allows students to practice English in real life situations, making the learning process more enjoyable and interactive. The storytelling strategy encourages students to organize and share ideas clearly, helping them to build confidence and fluency in speaking. In conclusion, students speaking ability improves not only in terms of vocabulary and pronunciation, but also in terms of motivation, confidence, and willingness to speak English. The implementation of these strategies has proven effective in creating a supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to actively use English in daily conversation
Copyright (c) 2025 Yohana Indah Purba, Bismar Sibuea, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Analysis of Merdeka Curriculum in Developingreading Skill of Seventh Grade in SMP Negeri 4 Pematang Siantar
This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in developing reading skills among seventh-grade students at SMP Negeri 4 Pematang Siantar. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and documentation involving English teachers and students. The results show that the Merdeka Curriculum provides flexibility for teachers in teaching methods and material selection, fostering student engagement and motivation. However, challenges such as limited reading interest and vocabulary persist. Overall, the curriculum positively impacts students' reading development through contextual and student-centered approaches
Copyright (c) 2025 Sulistriani Sulistriani, Semaria Eva Elita Girsang, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Scanning Strategy to Improve Students’ Reading Comprehension
This study aims to investigate the implementation of the Scanning strategy to improve students’ reading comprehension. The research employed a pre-experimental design with a one-group pre-test and post-test model. The sample consisted of 30 students grades VIII-4 from SMP Negeri 6 Pematangsiantar, randomly selected through a lottery method, in which the names of the classes were written on papers and drawn to determine the sample class. The instruments used included 10 multiple-choice questions and 5 essay questions focusing on recount texts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality tests, and the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. The findings revealed a significant improvement in students' reading comprehension after the implementation of the Scanning strategy, with a p-value < 0.001. The results of the Wilcoxon test indicated that the alternative hypothesis (Ha) was accepted, stating that the application of the Scanning strategy significantly enhances students’ reading comprehension abilities. Thus, it can be concluded that the Scanning strategy is effective in improving students’ reading comprehension
Copyright (c) 2025 Ghinaa M R Damanik, Anita Purba, Indra Jayanti Damanik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Implementation of Mastery Learning Model to Improve Students’ Reading Skills of Grade VII at MTS AL-Hikmah Marihat Bandar
The Implementation of Problem Based Learning (PBL) In Enhancing Students’ Reading Comprehension at The Eight Grade of SMP Swasta Taman Siswa Tapian Dolok
This research investigates the implementation of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) as a method to enhance the reading comprehension of eighth-grade students at SMP Swasta Tamansiswa Tapian Dolok. Reading comprehension is essential for students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, yet many learners face difficulties in understanding English texts. The research employed a quantitative approach with a pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design. The sample consisted of 32 students from class VIII-A, selected through purposive sampling. The students were taught using PBL strategies centered around a narrative text—The Legend of Lake Toba. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test scores and analyzed using SPSS. The results showed a significant improvement in students’ reading comprehension after the implementation of PBL, as indicated by the increase in the mean score from 44.38 (pre-test) to 69.38 (post-test). Statistical tests confirmed the normality and homogeneity of the data, and hypothesis testing indicated a significant effect of PBL on students’ reading comprehension. This study concludes that PBL is an effective teaching approach to improve reading comprehension, especially when applied through culturally relevant and engaging texts
Copyright (c) 2025 Dita Anggraini, Rohdearni Wati Sipayung, Natanael Saragih (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Duolingo Application in Improving Students’ English Vocabulary Mastery
The purpose of this research is to determine the effectiveness of the Duolingo application as a media for improving students’ English vocabulary mastery at seventh grade of SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 19 Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design. The population of this research consisted of seventh-grade students, with two classes as samples: one experimental class (VII-3) and one control class (VII-1), each consisting of 24 students. The technique of collecting data was pre-test and post-test, and the data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. The result of the research showed that Tcount (3.212) > Ttable (1.684) at the significance level α = 0.05 with degrees of freedom (df) = 46. This indicates that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted. Based on the findings, the post-test score was higher than the pre-test score. It can be concluded that there was a significant improvement in students' vocabulary mastery after the treatment using the Duolingo application. Therefore, the researcher concludes that the Duolingo application is effective in enhancing students' English vocabulary mastery. Duolingo offers gamified learning, interactive practice, and user-friendly features, making vocabulary learning more engaging and accessible. Students found it enjoyable and motivating, which supports vocabulary retention and development in an effective way
Copyright (c) 2025 Bismar Sibuea, Anita Purba, Icha Azzahra Mulya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Analysis of Students’ Difficulties in Speaking English at Eleventh Grade of SMK Buddhist Manjusri
This research is aimed to find out students’ difficulties in speaking English at Eleventh grade of SMK Buddhist Manjusri. This research is tried to find the students’ difficulties in speaking English, the cause of students’ difficulties in speaking English, and the solution of students’ difficulties in speaking English. This research was used qualitative method. The data collection methods used are observation, interviews, and questionnaire. The data analysis technique is qualitative, namely data reduction, Data Display, and Conclusion Drawing / Verification drawing conclusion. The data collected from the observation, interview, questionnaire and documentation. The questionnaire used Linkert Scale that consists of 15 questions. The result of this research showed that the most from respondent have difficulties in speaking English. The students have difficulties in: (1) vocabulary, (2) Confused the right word, (3) lack of grammar, (4) difficult to memorize vocabulary, (5) afraid to speak, and (6) not confidence. Furthermore, the cause of students’ difficulties of the research that happened are: the lack of vocabulary, lack of motivation, shyness, anxiety, and afraid making mistakes. The researcher found the solution of students difficulties in speaking English, namely the students needed to create innovative and new strategies from the teacher when teach and Teaching speaking English
Copyright (c) 2025 Puan Paquita M Saragih, Ridwin Purba (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Application of Using Picture Media for Improving the Students’ Achievement In Writing Descriptive Text
The purpose of this research is to find out the application of using picture media for improving the students’ achievement in writing descriptive text at the eighth grade of SMP Swasta Kartika 1-4 Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a true experimental method design. The population of this research was eighth grade students consisting of 68 students from 2 classes, and all were used as the sample through saturated sampling technique. The data collection technique was pre-test and post-test. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. The result of the research showed that the hypothesis testing of post-test control class and post-test experimental class shows that that tcount = 3,022 > ttable = 1,695. This means that H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted. The post-test score was significantly higher than the pre-test score, indicating that the use of picture media effectively improved students' achievement in writing descriptive texts. This can happen because the researcher provides treatment in the experimental class, namely explaining about descriptive text, generic structure, tenses used, and examples of descriptive text. The researcher also asks students to create descriptive text like the example given. Not only that, the researcher also explains how to use picture in creating descriptive text, then the researcher asks students to create descriptive text according to the image. When students understand, the researcher provides another picture and asks students to create descriptive text based on the image
Copyright (c) 2025 Mardin Silalahi, Marhaeni Kartika Dewi Matondang, Evita Salsabila Silalahi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improving Students’ Reading Comprehension Through Mind Mapping Technique
The purpose of this research was to improve students’ reading comprehension through the implementation of Mind Mapping Technique at the eighth grade of MTs Mesra Pematangsiantar. This research used a quantitative approach with a pre-experimental design, specifically a one-group pre-test and post-test design. The population of this research was all the eighth grade students consisting of 307 students, and the sample was class VIII-2 with a total of 32 students selected through purposive sampling. The data collection was conducted by administering pre-test and post-test in the form of multiple-choice questions. The data were analyzed by using SPSS version 26.0, including frequency distribution, statistical analysis, normality test, homogeneity test, and hypothesis test. The result showed that there was a significant difference between the students’ pre-test and post-test scores after applying the Mind Mapping Technique. The result of research was Ttest (10,486) > Ttable (1,668) at the significance level α = 0.05 with the degrees of freedom (df) = (32-1=31) for one class so the degrees of freedom within groups is 62. The students’ mean score increased from 51.56 in the pre-test to 70.31 in the post-test. In the pre-test, only 4 students passed the minimum mastery criteria, while after the treatment, 15 students achieved scores above the minimum criteria. It means that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted. Based on the evidence from the research results, the post-test has a higher score than the pre-test. From these results it was concluded that there was a significant difference in improving students’ reading comprehension before and after being given treatment using Mind Mapping Technique as a learning technique. Therefore, it can be concluded that the use of Mind Mapping Technique significantly improved the students’ reading comprehension at the eighth grade of MTs Mesra Pematangsiantar
Copyright (c) 2025 Addini Fadhilah, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Bismar Sibuea, Marhaeni K.D Matondang (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analysis of Teacher’s Strategies to Improve Speaking Skill at Grade VIII in SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 21 Serbelawan
This study aims to analyze the strategies used by teachers in improving the speaking skills of grade VIII students at SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 21 Serbelawan. The background of this study is based on the importance of speaking skills in English as one of the main skills in communication, as well as the challenges often faced by students and teachers in the process of learning speaking. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews with teachers and students, and documentation such as the Lesson Implementation Plan (RPP). The results of the study showed that teachers faced various obstacles such as low student self-confidence, limited vocabulary and pronunciation mastery, and lack of understanding of the material presented in English. To overcome this, teachers implemented various strategies, including the use of audio-visual media (music and video), a bilingual approach in explaining the material, and the implementation of speaking tasks involving activities such as storytelling, role-play, and presentations. These strategies have been shown to help increase student participation and build their confidence in speaking English. This study is expected to contribute to the development of more effective speaking teaching strategies at the junior high school level
Copyright (c) 2025 Natanael Saragih, Indra Jayanti Damanik, Dinda Nasabilla (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0