DEVELOVING STUDENTS’ VOCABULARY THROUGH SNOWBALL THROWING GAME

Abstrak

This study aimed to describe the implementation of the Snowball Throwing Game in vocabulary learning and to investigate students’ perceptions toward the use of the game in English language learning. This research employed a qualitative descriptive design to obtain an in-depth understanding of the learning process and students’ classroom experiences. The participants of this study were seventh-grade students at MTs Islamiyah Sayang. Data were collected through classroom observations, closed-ended (yes–no) questionnaires, and documentation. Classroom observations were conducted to examine students’ activities and the learning process during the implementation of the Snowball Throwing Game, while the questionnaires were used to identify students’ responses and perceptions toward vocabulary learning through the game. The collected data were analyzed using qualitative data analysis techniques proposed by Miles and Huberman, which consist of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, and were strengthened through triangulation to ensure data credibility. The findings revealed that the Snowball Throwing Game was implemented systematically through pre-activity, main activity, and post-activity stages. During the learning process, students demonstrated active participation, high enthusiasm, and positive interaction with their peers. The game encouraged students to practice vocabulary, particularly verbs, through interactive and collaborative activities. Furthermore, the questionnaire results indicated that most students had positive perceptions of learning vocabulary through the Snowball Throwing Game, as the learning activities were enjoyable, helped them understand and remember vocabulary more easily, and increased their motivation and confidence in using English. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the Snowball Throwing Game is an effective game-based learning strategy for teaching vocabulary at the junior high school level.