Progressive of Cognitive and Ability
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)

Playing to Speak: Using Communicative Games to Improve Students’ English Speaking Ability

Dhea Fitria Destin (Unknown)
Nunung Nurhayati (Nurhayati)
Wahyu (Unknown)
Iyan Hayani (Kementerian Agama Republik Indonesia)
Raman Kumar (Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University)



Article Info

Publish Date
03 Sep 2026

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the implementation of communicative games to improve junior high school students’ English speaking ability. The study was motivated by students’ difficulties in speaking English, including low confidence, limited participation, and difficulties in constructing sentences and using appropriate vocabulary. Methodology – This study employed Classroom Action Research (CAR).The participants were students of junior high school students in, Lebak, Banten. The research was conducted in two cycles, with each cycle consisting of two meetings. The intervention involved interactive speaking activities, including individual role-play in Cycle 1 and the group-based Taboo Talks game in Cycle 2. Data were collected through speaking quizzes and student self-assessment forms. The data were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics and compared across cycles based on predetermined criteria of success. Findings – The findings showed improvement in both students’ speaking ability and participation. The proportion of students who were able to produce five spoken sentences increased from 60% in Cycle 1 to 90% in Cycle 2, while active participation increased from 40% to 90%. The findings indicate that communicative games can provide students with opportunities to practice speaking in an engaging, collaborative, and supportive environment. Novelty – This study contributes evidence on the use of simple, low-technology communicative games within a CAR framework to address speaking difficulties in a junior high school context. Significance – The findings provide practical guidance for English teachers seeking accessible and engaging strategies to improve students’ speaking ability and classroom participation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jpr

Publisher

Subject

Education Other

Description

This journal is a publication that contains research results, development of innovative and relevant research and related conceptual studies and/or developments in the field of Education. This journal has a focus and scope that includes: 1. Educational learning and services. 2. Evaluation of ...