Using Role-play to Enhance EFL Learners‘ Long-term Retention and Recall of Idiomatic Expressions  

Oleh:

Kashiha, Hadi ; Heng, Chan Swee

Jenis: Article from Journal - ilmiah internasional
Dalam koleksi: TESOL Journal vol. 8 (2013), page 99-116 .
Topik: Idiomatic expressions; recall; retention; role-play
Fulltext: Using Role-play.pdf (1.32MB)

Isi artikel

The present study investigated the effect of role-play on improving intermediate Iranian EFL learners‘ retention and recall of idiomatic expressions. Idiomatic expressions are important in language competence especially when there is a desire for EFL learners to be more native-like in the use of the language. Learning methods are always a concern in learning, since effectiveness of the methodology will lead to a more efficient acquisition of the language. In this experimental study, 80 students formed the sample in order to test the effectiveness of a communicative strategy that was taught over a month. The variable of gender was also taken into account in the learning. The methodology followed a principled approach of meaningful learning which is appealing to learners‘ interest which can lead them towards better long-term retention. This can give an added advantage over mere rote learning which focuses mainly on memorization. The experiment involved role-playing according to a given social context in which 80 common idioms were used. The approach was contrasted with the control group where idioms were taught through definitions and memorization. The results were indicative of the fact that greater exposure to role-play promotes the Iranian EFL learners‘ retention and recall of idiomatic expressions and thus encouraged better learning and use. Role-play has distinct advantages in promoting naturalness and creativity leading to learning with fun. This translates to better retention and recall of idiomatic expressions.

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