English Vocabulary Acquisition of Grade VII Students of SMPN 6 Satap Kupang

Elvis Albertus Bin Toni, Imelda Hongu, Antonius Padu Dagang

Abstract


Vocabulary is a key component of language proficiency, supporting comprehension and communication. This study examined the level of English vocabulary mastery among students in class VII-C at SMPN 6 Satap Kupang Tengah. Using a descriptive quantitative design, all 21 students completed a vocabulary test consisting of written and visually supported sections to measure receptive vocabulary—the ability to recognize and understand grade-appropriate words. Scores were converted to percentages and classified as Very Low (0–40%), Low (41–60%), Moderate (61–80%), or High (81–100%). Results showed a mean score of 41.0% for the written section (Low) and 36.9% for the visual section (Very Low). Overall, students’ vocabulary mastery was categorized as Low, with most scoring between 25% and 50%. These findings reflect limited exposure to English outside the classroom and highlight the need for targeted vocabulary instruction to enhance students’ English proficiency.


Keywords


English vocabulary, receptive vocabulary, junior high school, Indonesian EFL learners

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.31004/jele.v11i3.2442

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