THE USE OF GAME BASED LEARNING IN TEACHING DESCRIPTIVE TEXT IN SMPK SANTO YOSEPH NAIKOTEN

Abstrak

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of Game-Based Learning (GBL) in improving students' ability to write descriptive texts. This study was conducted through a Classroom Action Research (CAR) design involving 28 ninth-grade students of SMPK Santo Yosep Naikoten. The use of games, specifically the Word Chain Game, was implemented to improve students' vocabulary mastery and motivation in learning English descriptive writing. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and classroom observations. The findings showed a significant improvement in students' writing performance, with the average score increasing from 68.8% in the pre-test to 83.7% in the post-test. In addition, students showed greater enthusiasm, active participation, and confidence during the learning process. These results indicate that Game-Based Learning not only supports vocabulary mastery but also creates an engaging and interactive classroom environment. Therefore, GBL can be considered an effective and innovative strategy for teaching English descriptive texts, which promotes both linguistic competence and learning motivation. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of GBL on other language skills and across various educational settings.