Vocabulary acquisition in the responsive speaking performance of fourth graders through cooperative learning

Abstract

The use of cooperative learning plays a significant role in language learning. Previous research has presented that the implementation of appropriate cooperative strategies can improve different English skills. However, little attention has been given to the use of cooperative learning strategies for the vocabulary acquisition in the responsive speaking performance in children. This small-scale action research study examined the impact of implementing cooperative learning approach to promote in the participants the learning and use of new vocabulary, in their class interactions. The study was conducted with A1 English level fourth graders at a public school in Bogotá, Colombia. Participants demonstrated difficulties when they needed to express short ideas in English not only for their lack of vocabulary and expressions but also because of their context and rough environment. Data were collected from field notes, surveys and pre and post implementation tests and analyzed through the grounded theory method. The results suggested that the implementation of cooperative learning affects positively the vocabulary acquisition process of EFL fourth graders with A1 (CEFR) English level, in their responsive speaking performance. It was observable in the improvement the students had in terms of the amount of new words they acquired, and in the social skills, they developed.