THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WORDWALL.NET AS A MEDIA FOR VOCABULARY LEARNING AT THE SEVENTH GRADE OF SMP NEGERI 13 BENGKULU TENGAH IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2024/2025

Building vocabulary knowledge is an important part of early English
language development. However, many EFL students still face challenges in
learning new words, especially when the materials used are repetitive or
unengaging. This study investigates the effectiveness of Wordwall.net as a digital
medium for vocabulary learning among seventh-grade students at SMP Negeri 13
Bengkulu Tengah in the 2024/2025 academic year. The research is based on the
Nation’s vocabulary framework and Schmitt’s theory of repeated exposure,
focusing on how digital platforms can support vocabulary retention at the beginner
level. A quasi-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design was applied,
involving 28 students who completed vocabulary tests and participated in semi-
structured interviews. The results showed a significant difference between the pre-
test (M = 40.36) and post-test (M = 74.64) scores, with an average gain of 34.28
points and a p-value less than 0.001. These findings led to the rejection of the null
hypothesis, indicating that Wordwall.net had a statistically significant effect on
students’ vocabulary learning. Qualitative data also showed that students responded
positively to the platform’s interactive and game-like features, which helped them
focus, stay motivated, and remember new words more easily. The study concludes
that Wordwall.net can be a valuable digital tool for supporting vocabulary learning,
particularly in EFL classrooms at the lower secondary level.
Keywords: effectiveness, vocabulary learning, Wordwall.net, EFL, web-based
learning