Innovations in Language Education and Literature
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): JUNE 2026

Game-Based Vocabulary Learning: The Effectiveness of Spelling Bee in EFL Instruction

Muh. Tedy Firansyah (Universitas Sulawesi Barat, Indonesia)
Adi Isma (Universitas Sulawesi Barat, Indonesia)
Ahyadi Ahyadi (Universitas Sulawesi Barat, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Vocabulary acquisition remains a persistent challenge in EFL classrooms, particularly where students have minimal exposure to English outside school. Conventional instructional methods often fail to sustain motivation or produce meaningful vocabulary gains. This study examines the effectiveness of the Spelling Bee Game as a game-based vocabulary learning strategy among eighth-grade students at SMPN 4 Pamboang, West Sulawesi, Indonesia. A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group design was employed, involving 39 students divided into an experimental class (n=19) and a control class (n=20). The experimental group received vocabulary instruction through three Spelling Bee variations, while the control group followed conventional methods. Data were gathered through vocabulary tests and a Likert-scale questionnaire measuring learning interest. Results showed that the experimental group's mean score rose substantially from 46.6 to 79.5, compared to a modest gain from 47.25 to 66.5 in the control group. An independent sample t-test confirmed a statistically significant difference (Sig. = 0.000). The questionnaire yielded an overall average of 86.2%, classified as Excellent, indicating strong student interest in the approach. These findings suggest that Spelling Bee Game offers a viable and engaging alternative to conventional vocabulary instruction in low-exposure EFL settings.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ilere

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Innovations in Language Education and Literature (ILEre) is a distinguished open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing scholarly knowledge in the fields of language education and literature. Our journal provides a platform for researchers, scholars, educators, and practitioners ...