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

The Influence of Using Crossword Puzzle Media on Increasing Mastery of English Vocabulary in Junior High Schools

Rufiana Zulfia (Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris, STKIP Muhammadiyah Aceh Barat Daya)
Zuhri Efendi (Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris, STKIP Muhammadiyah Aceh Barat Daya)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Vocabulary mastery is a crucial element in learning English as a foreign language. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of using crossword puzzles as a teaching tool to improve the English vocabulary mastery of seventh-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Susoh. This study employed a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design (pretest-posttest control-group design). The sample consisted of 59 students selected through cluster sampling, divided into an experimental class (Grade VII C, n = 29) and a control class (Grade VII A, n = 30). Data were collected using a vocabulary proficiency test and analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent-samples t-test in SPSS. The results of the analysis showed a significant difference in mean post-test scores between the experimental and control classes (t(57) = 7.705; p < 0.001). The mean post-test score for the experimental class was 79.69, significantly higher than the control class’s mean of 65.17. These findings demonstrate that the use of crossword puzzles as a teaching medium significantly improves students’ English vocabulary mastery compared to conventional teaching approaches.

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, ...