IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

Strategies for Developing Arabic Speaking Skills (Maharah Kalam) at Private Islamic Senior High School: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Erka Pulungan (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Lia Mahardika Harahap (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Aidil ’Azza Mu’izzuddin (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Hadi Mar’i Zain (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Hakmi Wahyudi (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Siti Sumaiah (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)
Nurul Mardhatillah (Master of Arabic Language Education Study Program, Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University Riau)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Jun 2026

Abstract

Arabic speaking proficiency (maharah kalam) remains a central challenge in Islamic educational institutions in Indonesia. While communicative strategies have been widely discussed theoretically, few studies have examined their systematic implementation in specific madrasah contexts. This study investigates the strategies employed in the Arabic language learning programme at Private Islamic Senior High School Medan to develop students’ maharah kalam, with particular attention to the role of the language environment (bi’ah lughawiyah). Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with Arabic teachers and students, and documentation analysis. Findings reveal that the key strategies implemented include muhadasah (conversation) practice, daily vocabulary provision, dialogue and role-play exercises, and the creation of an Arabic-immersive school environment. The language environment (bi’ah lughawiyah) emerged as the most influential factor in improving speaking fluency, as it provided students with continuous communicative practice beyond formal classroom instruction. Supporting factors included teacher creativity and extracurricular language activities, while the main inhibiting factors were limited student vocabulary and low self-confidence. The study concludes that communicative, practice-oriented strategies embedded within an active language environment are effective in gradually improving maharah kalam. These findings contribute practical insights for Arabic language educators and Islamic educational institutions aiming to design more effective speaking-focused learning programmes.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...