Improving Vocabulary Skill of the Fifth Graders through Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy (VSS)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Vocabulary has been widely considered as one of the major contributors to good comprehension of a text and this is greatly evident in reading lessons. When the teacher integrates vocabulary exercises before the lessons start, this merely highlights that vocabulary is very important. However, during the conduct of the pre-and post-Phil-IRI assessments held twice a year, respectively, the researcher ended up feeling upset for some learners. Out of 24 pupils, 15 belongs to frustration level in terms of comprehension. They can read the printed word but fail to understand the whole text. Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy is an intervention conducted to help the fifteen Fifth Graders enhance their vocabulary skill.

METHODS

Descriptive research design and purposive sampling were used in this study. After having administered the Teacher-Made Vocabulary Assessment Test (VAT Pre-Test) to fifteen Fifth Graders on the first week of August, 2017, the researcher used frequency distribution for the listing of the scores of the respondents and their Percentages in determining the insights of the respondents towards Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy.

RESULTS

Vocabulary Self-Collection Strategy (VSS) was proven to be helpful in enhancing pupils' vocabulary. It was also proven as a vocabulary enhancer through the increased scores of their vocabulary test in the post-assessment and in the classroom, activities given to them. Learners embraced positively the use of VSS in learning new words and their meanings. It was manifested in their insights about VSS in which 67% of learners strongly agree and 33% agree that VSS can enhance vocabulary.

DISCUSSIONS

Results in the Teacher-Made Assessment Test revealed that learners improve their vocabulary after the VSS intervention. It was evident in the increase of their VAT scores during the Post-Test or after the VSS intervention. It also revealed the insights of learners about using VSS in teaching vocabulary. Most of them enjoyed the activities given and it helped in their vocabulary development. Others found it difficult sometimes, but they still enjoyed it and affirmed that it enhanced their vocabulary somehow.