THE EFFECTIVENESS OF AN ENGLISH CROSSWORD PUZZLE GAME TO IMPROVE VOCABULARY MASTERY OF 7TH GRADE STUDENTS AT SMPN 2 PONTIANAK

Wiwin Kurnia; Faqihatun - Nadiah; Istiqamah Istiqamah; Militansina Militansina; Nanik Shobikah; Oki Anggara

doi:10.24260/khelie.v2i1.4126

Wiwin Kurnia Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak
Faqihatun - Nadiah Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak
Istiqamah Istiqamah Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak
Militansina Militansina Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak
Nanik Shobikah Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak
Oki Anggara Institute Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24260/khelie.v2i1.4126

Keywords: Crossword Puzzle Games, Vocabulary Mastery, English Language Learning

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of crossword puzzle games in improving English vocabulary mastery among seventh-grade students at SMPN 2 Pontianak. Using a quasi-experimental design, the research involved 60 students divided into experimental and control groups. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests in written subjective format and analyzed using SPSS version 27 based on Agresti & Finlay's theory (2019). The results indicate a significant improvement in the experimental group, with the average score rising from 51.06 to 80.06, while the control group showed a modest increase from 48.56 to 65.13. A statistical test at a 5% significance level confirmed the effectiveness of crossword puzzles in enhancing vocabulary mastery (t-count = 11.349 > t-table = 2.042). These findings highlight the potential of interactive games as a valuable teaching strategy in the independent curriculum to support vocabulary acquisition.