The Effect of Using Descriptive Texts from English for Nusantara on Seventh-Grade Students’ Vocabulary Improvement

Vocabulary is an essential component of English language learning because it enables students to comprehend texts and express ideas effectively. However, many junior high school students still have limited vocabulary due to insufficient exposure to meaningful learning contexts. This research aimed to determine the effect of using descriptive texts from the English for Nusantara textbook on students’ vocabulary improvement. A pre-experimental method with a one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed involving 28 seventh-grade students at UPT SMP Negeri 1 Tamalatea. Data were collected through a vocabulary test consisting of multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and word arrangement items measuring the aspects of meaning, use, and form. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a paired-samples t-test. The findings showed that the mean score increased from 37.71 in the pre-test to 73.00 in the post-test. The paired-samples t-test also revealed a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores (t = −16.289, p < .001). In addition, improvements were found in the aspects of meaning, use, and form. These findings indicate that descriptive texts from the English for Nusantara textbook effectively improve students’ vocabulary and can serve as appropriate instructional materials for vocabulary learning at the junior high school level.