The Effect of the Task-Based Learning to Improve English Speaking Skills of Seventh Graders

Abstract

The purposes of this research were twofold: 1) to compare the English-speaking skills of Seventh Graders after using a task-based learning approach, and 2) to study students' satisfaction with learning English following a task-based learning approach. The sample consisted of 40 seventh graders in the first semester of the academic year 2022, selected through cluster random sampling from Prachuapwittayalai School, Prachuap Khiri Khun. The research instruments included 1) task-based learning lesson plans, 2) a direct test of speaking skills with an assessment rubric for English-speaking skills, and 3) an assessment of satisfaction toward task-based learning. The data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and a t-test for dependent samples. The results of the study were as follows: 1) The English-speaking skills of the students significantly improved after using a task-based learning approach, with statistical significance at the 0.05 level. 2) The students' satisfaction with the task-based learning approach was at a high level.