Low Level Of English Proficiency Research Articles

Optimizing Whatsapp Features in Improving English Speaking Proficiency: A Classroom Action Research

The problem underlying this study is the low level of English proficiency among students, while the importance of technology in education is increasingly recognized. To overcome this, the study implements a Classroom Action Research (CAR) approach by using WhatsApp features such as voice messages and video calls as media to encourage students to practice speaking. The purpose of this action is to provide opportunities for students to develop their speaking proficiency. This research was conducted through three cycles of action involving the planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. Data were collected through pre-tests, observations during cycles one, two, and three, and interviews with students. Data analysis focused on measuring the increase in speaking fluency, reduction in pronunciation errors, decrease in the frequency of pauses, and increase in students' confidence levels, as part of the reflection process in each cycle. The results of the action cycles showed a significant increase in students' speaking fluency. In the first cycle, many students reached 81-90 words per minute, while in the second cycle, the speaking rate increased to 91-100 words per minute. Some students even reached 100-110 words per minute in the third cycle. The frequency of pronunciation errors decreased consistently, and no students showed an increase in the number of errors after the actions in each cycle. The decrease in the frequency of pauses during speaking also indicated an increase in students' fluency and confidence. Overall, the reflections from these CAR cycles indicate that the use of the WhatsApp features is contributes in increasing speaking fluency, reducing pronunciation errors, decreasing the frequency of pauses, and increasing students' confidence in speaking English. However, further action cycles are needed to continue to support students who are still at a low level of fluency and help more students achieve the expected standard.

Identifying English Language Needs of Yemeni Medical Students: An ESP Study at Dhamar University

The present study aims to find out the English language needs of the medical, undergraduate students at Dhamar University from an ESP perspective. More specifically, it seeks to address the following questions: what are the English language needs of the medicines students at Faculty of Medicines, Dhamar University in Yemen?; to what extend do the current ESP courses meet the students' actual needs in the Faculty of Medicine, Dhamar University?; what are the most important recommendations to address the medical students needs in the Faculty of Medicine, Dhamar University?; and what do the medicines students think about the actual needs of medical students in the Faculty of Medicine, Dhamar University? The total number of 48 medicine students participated in the study to answer the prepared questionnaire. The population of the questionnaire is the selected students from the fourth and fifth academic years. The questionnaire data were analyzed quantitively and designed to comprehend the ESP context. The research work investigates the English-related problems the students face while they are studying medicines and, thus, presents solutions and recommendations to overcome such obstacles, bridging the gap between the students' low level of English and the required level at the university where English is used as the language of instruction. The main findings show that the special needs of the medical students such as their limited narrow knowledge of English at Dhamar University are taken into account. The research work shows that the medical students in Dhamar university have low level of English proficiency. Their low, limited knowledge of the English language constitutes an obstacle most students face either in their study or in their occupational careers. The need analysis was figured out to show that all skills and sub-skills are important for the students’ academic studies and target career with special attention to scientific terms and reading aspects. This research study, based on its findings, ends with some recommendations and suggestions to the people concerned of teaching and learning English to the medical students at Dhamar University. It is generally recommended that there is a need to increase the class hours, provide technological equipment, and appoint ESP trained instructors for the efficient teaching of medical English.

Socialization of the Content Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) Program in Learning

This article discusses the application of the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach to improve English language skills in Indonesia, especially in rural areas. The low level of English proficiency in Indonesia, as reported by Education First (EF), shows that this ability is still a major challenge, especially in schools with limited resources. In the Community Service (PKM) activity carried out at Madrasah Aliyah Arrahman Nasol Cikoneng Ciamis, the CLIL approach was introduced through a seminar to policy makers and teachers, with the aim of improving the effectiveness of English language learning. The PKM method consists of three main stages: initial assessment, seminar implementation, and evaluation. The results of this program show that CLIL, which integrates language learning and academic content, not only increases students' motivation but also creates a supportive learning environment. Thus, CLIL has the potential to be a sustainable learning strategy to overcome barriers to teaching English in rural settings and improve students' English language skills.

ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ВІРТУАЛЬНОЇ ЛАБОРАТОРІЇ LABSTER ДЛЯ ВИВЧЕННЯ ХІМІЇ В ТЕХНІЧНОМУ УНІВЕРСИТЕТІ

Immersive virtual labs represent a digital paradigm in education that meets the needs and preferences of today’s students. The main advantage is the ability to conduct laboratory and practical work in the physical absence of educational equipment or the inability to use it, which is especially important in the context of martial law restrictions in Ukraine. The article analyzes the experience of using the Labster web platform, which provides virtual laboratory simulations of natural sciences. The virtual laboratory was used in the educational process of Lutsk National Technical University when teaching chemical disciplines in the autumn semester of the 2023-2024 academic year. The virtual simulation tasks "Introduction to Groups of the Periodic Table" were offered to students as an alternative option for extracurricular independent work. 146 1st year students were registered, of which 99 (67.8%) completed the test, and 47 (32.2 %) partially passed it. The results of the surveys are presented, the first was conducted immediately after work, the second was a questionnaire on the comprehensibility of the content and the perception of the usefulness of Labster modeling – about three weeks after the completion of the Labster simulation. Based on the analysis of the answers of students, the main advantages of using a virtual laboratory are established - gaining new educational experience, improving the knowledge and digital skills of students. Virtual simulations increased students' engagement and confidence. The advantage of working in a virtual laboratory is personalized learning. The main obstacles to using Labster are highlighted: low level of English proficiency (Labster does not involve the use of Ukrainian content) and insufficient digital skills to navigate in the virtual space. It is recommended to use virtual simulations not as a substitute for classroom practical exercises, but as a modern tool to supplement them.

Two-Case Study of Rural Migrant TVET Female Students in Western China: Aspirations of Learning English

This study is an investigation of the English language learning aspirations and deprivations of female rural migrant youth in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) schools in two locales in western China. This study adopted basic interpretive research focused on individual voices and experiences. The capability approach provided the conceptual framework. Participants in this research primarily aspired to learn English for instrumental purposes: to pass exams, earn higher degrees, find better jobs in cities, and support their children in learning English. A lack of English proficiency, economic situation, and living environment greatly limited their aspirations. Participants showed a spectrum of levels of aspirations of English learning. For participants with low levels of English proficiency, their English could neither support their educational and employment goals nor inspire them for greater future plans. Participants from the TVET–university joint program formulated a stronger and wider range of aspirations when compared to those encapsulated in secondary TVET. Recommendations include increasing opportunities for exposure to English, reforming exam-oriented English learning, enriching the prevailing culture of learning and the perceived value and social uses of English, increasing TVET school and university cooperation, and adapting the TVET English curriculum to economic imperatives.

A Survey on the Application of Lead-In in Rural Junior High School English Teaching in Henan Province of China

With the higher requirements of The English Curriculum Standards for Compulsory Education for English teaching design, the lead-in phase emerging as a critical component that has received more attention from frontline English teachers. However, a significant knowledge gap exists regarding the practical application of lead-in strategies in rural junior high school English classrooms. This study aims to address two primary research questions: the current state of lead-in practices in rural junior high school English teaching and the factors influencing the effectiveness of these strategies. To explore these questions, employing a quantitative research approach, a survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method, which involved selecting 40 English teachers from 7 rural junior high schools in Henan Province. The data from the questionnaire survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS 25.0. The findings highlighted various challenges faced by teachers during the lead-in phase, such as limited teaching resources and students’ low English proficiency levels. Furthermore, the study identified teachers’ professional development and experience as crucial factors affecting the effectiveness of lead-in strategies. The conclusion drawn from the study suggests that enhancing the lead-in phase in rural junior high school English teaching necessitates a multifaceted strategy encompassing improved resource allocation, teacher training, and the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies. Based on these findings, the study recommends increasing investment in rural English education infrastructure, strengthening teacher professional development, and promoting the exploration of diverse lead-in strategies to better cater to the needs of students.

PERSPECTIVES ON TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AMONG SPANISH-SPEAKING HISPANIC ADULTS AGE 60+

Abstract By 2060, Hispanics aged 65+ are projected to be 21% (19.9 million) of the total US age 65+ population. Despite the benefits of technology use, such as facilitating social engagement and access to health services, few studies have explored attitudes of older Spanish-Speaking Hispanic adults toward technology adoption. In this secondary analysis of a larger diverse study of attitudes toward technology, we reviewed audio recordings and transcripts of Spanish-language interviews and focus groups with adults ages 63-89. Participants (n=21) self-identified as Hispanic, 67% had less than a high school education, and almost half (n=10) lived alone. Connecting with family members abroad was the primary motivator and a “necessity” for using technology; excess use of a device was negative. As one participant stated: “Technology brings you closer to those far away and pushes you away from those near you.” Those without relatives living with or near them reported greater difficulty using technology and identified living alone as a barrier to adoption. Finally, although the sample had low levels of English proficiency and low educational attainment, characteristics associated with lower use and knowledge of technology, findings challenge stereotypes that these older adults lack the capacity or interest to adopt the technology. Rather, the study identified multiple social factors that may hinder adoption. Understanding these cultural and linguistic barriers is important to promote digital inclusion; overcoming the digital divide will involve more than providing free tablets or classes. It will also require addressing barriers with adequate, culturally competent understanding, training and support.

Mother Tongue Education as a Medium of Instruction - A Literature Review

This article presents a review of literature of various studies on mother tongue education (MTE) as a medium of instruction. The first objective of this review was to examine the role of mother tongue as first language (L1) as a medium of instruction for effective learning. The second objective was to study the challenges faced by native language learners studying through second language (L2) English. The third objective was to summarise the problems and challenges in implementation of mother tongue-based multi-lingual education (MTB-ML). The review was conducted through a literature search in various databases. The review of literature showed that the mother tongue-based education gives better understanding of the concepts and clear interpretation of the thoughts and gives emotional strength. Mother tongue learning was seen to act as a medium for the interaction within a community. However, the challenge of implementing mother tongue-based multilingual education in countries having multiple mother tongues was a reality. It was seen that learning through English (second language) was useful to learn for all the students in the context of globalization. However, the major challenge was of low levels of English proficiency amongst teachers and students, lack of resources, and limitations of a well defined pedagogical plan. The studies suggested that up to primary classes, the medium of instruction should be mother tongue/regional language. Students should however be given an opportunity to learn through English/second language so that they would be able to act as global citizens in future.

Construction and validation of the foreign language learning enjoyment scale

AbstractSince the original and adapted versions of the scales that aim to measure foreign language enjoyment may not be appropriate for learners with low English proficiency levels, it seems necessary to develop scales in their native languages. This study aims to create a valid and reliable scale of foreign language learning enjoyment that can be applied to Turkish students learning English as a foreign language (EFL). The sample group of the study consisted of 18 students in the focus group study, 408 learners in the exploratory study, 630 students in the confirmatory group, and 66 students in the study in the assessment phase of convergent validity and test–retest reliability. The participants had different educational backgrounds and proficiency levels in English. After administering a background questionnaire and the Foreign Language Learning Enjoyment Scale (FLLES), exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and reliability analysis were performed. The findings showed that the FLLES comprising 12 items obtained high reliability and validity with a one‐factor solution. The study also concluded that the FLLES displayed a moderate correlation with the Foreign Language Enjoyment Scale (FLES) developed by Dewaele and MacIntyre, and had a good level of test–retest reliability.

Innovative productive method of teaching foreign languages to foreign students

This article describes an innovative productive method of teaching foreign languages foreign students. Increase quantity foreign students in Azerbaijan in recent years has led to changes in the content and structure of learning foreign languages. Communicative competence in the conditions of multilingualism becomes basis fundamental professional training foreign students. In this regard, a productive method of teaching foreign languages allows you to systematize the methodological foundations of integrated language learning by foreign students. In addition, the study of foreign languages based on the basic principles of productive method provides creative development and self-realization of students, reinforced with the help of the developed linguodidactic method of the Personal Multilingual Portfolio (PMP). An analysis of modern educational standards of higher education allows us to conclude that there is a trend towards a practical orientation. This methodological the direction determines the introduction of productive learning in the field of teaching foreign languages, providing a high quality of education. The article reveals the content of this linguodidactic technology in the system of professional training of foreign students. The article shows theoretical and practical methodological Aspects learning foreign languages foreign students, having a low level of knowledge of the Azerbaijani language and an average or low English proficiency level. To test this technology, the authors conducted an ex.periment using the methods of scientific and pedagogical research. AT result It was found out what English, Azerbaijani and native languages can interact and correlate with each other another in the process of learning foreign languages. The authors determined the dynamics formation communicative competence students, including linguistic and discursive aspects. The results of the experiment showed the effectiveness of the developed PMF technology and its successful implementation in training process.

The Effect of a Self-Regulated Intervention on Vocabulary Knowledge and Self-Regulated Learning Skills for English Language Learners

English language learners (ELLs) lack academic vocabulary knowledge, an essential component that explains much of the persistent achievement gap between students who start schools as ELLs and their monolingual peers. This single-subject experimental design study addressed this issue by focusing on self-regulated vocabulary learning that helps ELLs become effective and independent word learners. Nine upper elementary ELLs participated in an intervention for 16 sessions, with about 35 minutes per session. The intervention included the instruction of task-specific cognitive strategies (i.e., morphological and contextual analyses) and metacognitive strategies (i.e., goal-setting and monitoring) in authentic reading texts in social studies. Results indicated positive effects on ELLs’ vocabulary knowledge and self-­regulated vocabulary learning skills. Participants were also able to generalize both cognitive and metacognitive strategies to learning of new words. A lagging effect was observed for participants with low English proficiency levels.

The effects of a two-generation English as a second language (ESL) intervention on immigrant parents and children in Head Start

We present results of a randomized control trial of a two-generation English as a Second Language (ESL) program in which all families participated in Head Start while treatment parents also enrolled in a high dosage, family-focused ESL curriculum with supportive services. Examining 197 parent-child dyads among Spanish- (89%) and Zomi-speaking (11%) immigrant families, we found improvements in participant parents’ English reading skills and engagement with their child’s teacher after one year. Parents with low levels of English proficiency (57%) at program start reported more positive parenting skills and lower levels of psychological distress whereas parents with more advanced English proficiency (43%) reported more parenting stress and higher levels of psychological distress. We did not find main effects on children’s language and cognitive skills. We conclude by discussing policy implications of a two-generation approach for immigrant families.

The mediating effects of needs satisfaction on the relationships between prior knowledge and self‐regulated learning through artificial intelligence chatbot

AbstractThe anthropomorphic characteristics of artificial intelligence (AI) can provide a positive environment for self‐regulated learning (SRL). The factors affecting adolescents' SRL through AI technologies remain unclear. Limited AI and disciplinary knowledge may affect the students' motivations, as explained by self‐determination theory (SDT). In this study, we examine the mediating effects of needs satisfaction in SDT on the relationship between students' previous technical (AI) and disciplinary (English) knowledge and SRL, using an AI conversational chatbot. Data were collected from 323 9th Grade students through a questionnaire and a test. The students completed an AI basic unit and then learned English with a conversational chatbot for 5 days. Confidence intervals were calculated to investigate the mediating effects. We found that students' previous knowledge of English but not their AI knowledge directly affected their SRL with the chatbot, and that satisfying the need for autonomy and competence mediated the relationships between both knowledge (AI and English) and SRL, but relatedness did not. The self‐directed nature of SRL requires heavy cognitive learning and satisfying the need for autonomy and competence may more effectively engage young children in this type of learning. The findings also revealed that current chatbot technologies may not benefit students with relatively lower levels of English proficiency. We suggest that teachers can use conversational chatbots for knowledge consolidation purposes, but not in SRL explorations. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can potentially support students' self‐regulated learning (SRL) of disciplinary knowledge through chatbots. Needs satisfaction in Self‐determination theory (SDT) can explain the directive process required for SRL. Technical and disciplinary knowledge would affect SRL with technologies. What this paper adds This study examines the mediating effects of needs satisfaction in SDT on the relationship between students' previous AI (technical) and English (disciplinary) knowledge and SRL, using an AI conversational chatbot. Students' previous knowledge of English but not their AI knowledge directly affected their SRL with the chatbot. Autonomy and competence were mediators, but relatedness was not. Implications for practice and/or policy Teachers should use chatbots for knowledge consolidation rather than exploration. Teachers should support students' competence and autonomy, as these were found to be the factors that directly predicted SRL. School leaders and teacher educators should include the mediating effects of needs satisfaction in professional development programmes for digital education.

EFL VIETNAMESE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT IN FACE-TO-FACE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

English has gradually been very important in education in Vietnam and it is taught from the early ages. However, many students cannot communicate English appropriately after graduation. There are many reasons for this, but student engagement is considered as one of the major reasons which cause the low level of English proficiency of Vietnamese students. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate EFL Vietnamese students’ perceptions of their engagement with English learning in the face-to-face learning environment. A quantitative method was employed. The sample consisted of 428 students who have studied English. The results revealed that students were highly engaged with their learning. Students indicated that they were cognitively engaged with learning the best and were agentically engaged the least. In addition, the findings also showed that English major students were more engaged with their learning than their non-English major counterparts. The students in the group of freshman and sophomore year combined were found to be more engaged than those in junior and senior years. Some implications from the findings were also suggested.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/edu_01/0542/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Acculturative difficulties and coping strategies among Vietnamese immigrants: a case study of two high-socio status immigrant families in the U.S.

Vietnamese immigrants in the United States encounter a variety of acculturation issues that affect them as individuals, families, and as members of their communities. It is evidenced in the literature that low-socio status immigrants suffered from those acculturation challenges. However, there is scant research on how acculturation affects high-socio status immigrants in general and Vietnamese American immigrants in particular. To better understand how high-educated Vietnamese families coped with acculturation in the United States, this research used semi-structured interviews to examine the acculturation issues they encountered and the techniques they utilized to overcome those issues. Four well-educated participants were interviewed one-on-one for 20-30 minutes each by Google Meet in Vietnamese whenever they were available. The interviews were transcribed using unfocused transcription, and the data was analyzed using grounded theory technique. Results showed that high-educated Vietnamese immigrants in the United States face three major acculturation challenges: orientation, the necessity of better economic and self-esteem needs. However, women seemed to be under more acculturative stress owing to their lower levels of English proficiency and work satisfaction, according to the findings. In terms of coping methods, the husbands use integration acculturation tactics to deal with their issues. Separation methods were adopted by the women at various periods in their life, despite the fact that they are eager to become fully integrated members of American culture. They are unable to do so due to a lack of urgency and lack of access to cultural integration.

How Can Framed Mammography Screening Messages Be Optimally Persuasive for Foreign-Born Chinese American Women?

Foreign-born Chinese American women (FBCAW) have the lowest mammography rates compared with other racial groups despite the overwhelming evidence of the benefits of screening. Message framing based on the prospect theory has shown significant but inconsistent effects on mammogram screening among ethnic minority groups. Using data from a randomized controlled trial, this secondary analysis aims to identify factors that interact with message framing to improve mammography screening in FBCAW. In the parent study, participants were randomized to receive either a gain- or loss-framed brochure that encouraged mammography screening. Data were collected at baseline and 2 months using validated questionnaires. For this secondary analysis, ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify moderation effects using both per-protocol and intention-to-treat principles. Participants predominantly had low income, a low level of English proficiency, and no insurance. Lack of access to mammography services, knowledge of making a mammogram appointment, knowledge of insurance coverage for breast cancer treatment, education levels, and mammogram history were significant moderators of the framing effects. Overall, the moderation effects were larger when using per-protocol analysis. Some moderation results under intention-to-treat analysis were different from those using per-protocol analysis. The persuasive effects of the loss- or gain-framed messages depend on the characteristics of FBCAW. Future studies can identify algorithms to select tailored messages that match individual FBCAW's characteristics to optimize the effects of framed messages. Findings of this study can guide healthcare providers, especially nurses, to choose different wording when communicating with their clients.

Needs Analysis of Chilean Students of Dentistry for Dental English Course Development

The purpose of the study is to determine the necessity for a Dental English course in the dentistry degree program at the Universidad Autónoma de Chile. To achieve this objective, the target needs analysis instrument developed by Hutchinson and Water (1987) was adapted and distributed to 91 dentistry students and 35 of their teachers in order to determine the students' necessities, lacks, wants, expectations, preferred style of learning and teaching, and interest in the English for Dentistry course. For the quantitative data analysis, descriptive statistics were utilized, while thematic analysis was adopted for the qualitative data analysis. The results indicated the perceived importance of English is related to studying dentistry in their program and practicing dentistry in their future careers as dentists, the sense of lack is demonstrated in the inadequacy of English learning courses in their program curriculum as well as their current low level of English proficiency, and the need to focus on reading, writing, and vocabulary skills in order to write and read research articles in English. The study recommends implementation of a comprehensive branch of English language instruction that include English for General Purposes and English for Specific Purposes, such as English for Dentistry, English for Dental Consultation, and English for Writing Research Articles.

A Case Study on the Use of Inquiry-Based Instruction to Improve Science Learning in Junior High Schools in Ghana

The study examined how Inquiry-Based Learning affects students' academic progress in science lessons and whether this approach can help low-proficiency users of English to comprehend scientific concepts. The study used a Quasi-Experimental design and looked at it through the lens of Self-Determination theory. The study included a total of 40 second-year Junior High School students from two distinct classes. The research was aimed at students aged between 13 and 15 years, and therefore, only students within that age range were selected to participate. Students in the experimental group received Inquiry-Based instruction, while the control group used traditional instruction. The study lasted for four weeks and was an experimental one. To see if Inquiry-Based learning is more effective than traditional teaching, a test with 20 questions was used as a pre-test and a post-test for both the experimental group and the control group. The results of the study showed that students who were taught using an inquiry-based method scored higher than those who were taught through a traditional technique. The main finding of this study is that students in the experimental group, who had a low level of English proficiency, were able to understand the lesson without switching to their native language to explain concepts.

Factors affecting English proficiency of Arabic student nurses: Future directions for educational developers in Saudi Arabia

This study aims to determine the contributory factors affecting the English Proficiency of Arabic student nurses. This research employed the quantitative-cross-sectional approach conducted at the University of Hail, College of Nursing. Two hundred seventy-six student nurses participated in the study resulting from the convenience sampling. Frequency and percentage, t-test, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) analyzed the data. Data was gathered between January and February 2022. The students have a low level of English proficiency (22.25/55). The gender has significant difference with level of English proficiency (t=3.679; p<.000), however, there was no significant difference with environment (t=.129; p>.898), peer (t=.255; p>.799), teacher (t=.515; p>.607), and technology (t=1.306; p>.193). Moreover, age was found no significant difference with the level of English proficiency (F=.618; p>.540), environment (F=1.415; p>0.71), and teacher (F=2.462; .087) but with a significant difference with technology (F=4.155; p>.017) and peer (F=1.486; p<.044). The year level of the participants, was found no significant difference with English proficiency (F=.932; p>.395), environment (F=.494; p>.611), peer (F=1.385; p>.252), teacher (F=1.627; p>.198), and technology (F 2.23; p>.109). Lastly, the environment (F=(4,271=9.856, p<000)), peer (F=(4,271=9.856, p<.020)), teacher (F=(4,271=9.856, p<.014)) were significant contributors to the level of proficiency of the student nurses but not on technology. The student nurses have a low level of English proficiency, and gender was found to have a significant difference in English proficiency. The age was found to have no significant difference with English proficiency, environment, and teacher. However, technology and peer were found to have a significant difference. The year level of the participants was found to have no significant difference with English proficiency, environment, peer, teacher, and technology. The environment, peers, and teacher contributed to English proficiency but not to technology.

The Effectiveness of a Structural-cum-Communicative Approach to Vocabulary Teaching

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a structural-cum-communicative approach to the teaching of vocabulary to students possessing a low level of English proficiency. A total of 52 foundation degree students taking a 13-week preparatory reading and writing course participated in the present study. Both the control and the experimental groups took a pre-test and a post-test. The pre-test contained two parts, each of which included 25 words and a list of 25 definitions for students to select. The same format applied to the post-test. Both groups of participants were taught word-formation knowledge at the initial stage. However, at the later stage of actually teaching target words, the experimental group was engaged in brief conversations on topics related to their daily life with respect to the target words while the control group was provided with explanations only in the teaching process.Paired Samples T-Tests show that only the experimental group scored significantly higher on the post-test than on the pre-test. The findings suggest that the teaching of word-formation knowledge as well as engaging students in conversations related to the target words seems to constitute an effective pedagogical approach to vocabulary building for students possessing a low level of English proficiency.