Bridging the Frustration Gap: Assessing Vocabulary Proficiency with the Yes/No Test

Proceedings of The 6th World Conference on Research in Teaching and Education

Year: 2023

DOI:

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Bridging the Frustration Gap: Assessing Vocabulary Proficiency with the Yes/No Test

Thomas H. Goetz

 

 

ABSTRACT: 

The Yes/No Test was adapted and used in assisting  and assessing vocabulary proficiency as a way to bridge the frustration gap experienced by language learners. Such is the focus of this study. The Yes/No Test is a simple vocabulary proficiency test that requires participants to indicate their familiarity with a given word. A sample (N=56)  of low proficiency-level English language learners were offered the Yes/No Test was alongside other publisher and teacher-provided activities. The results show that students who completed the Yes/No Test scored somewhat better on the corresponding unit test than those who did not, suggesting its usefulnessness as a tool to prepare students for their unit. Additionally, the Yes/No Test was found to be a valuable tool for identifying words that learners may need further attention or practice. It is suggested that the Yes/No Test can help bridge the frustration gap experienced by language learners by providing a quick and easy way to assess vocabulary proficiency and identify areas for improvement, but more research is needed. Overall, this study highlights the perceived benefits of incorporating the Yes/No Test into language learning programs to enhance vocabulary acquisition and improve overall proficiency.

keywords: Assessment, EFL acquisition, Language learning, Student dissatisfaction, Vocabulary acquisition