Facilitating Vocabulary Depth through Clarifying Context in havo 4

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of additionally developed context-rich study material for Examenidioom havo 4 (van Eijk, 2021) in facilitating a more advanced understanding of vocabulary. An extended version of the Examenidioom booklet (van Eijk, 2021) was developed, consisting of three extra authentic example sentences per word, portraying its various forms, meanings and uses. Two vocabulary exams were used to indicate any effects, as well as evaluative semi-structured interviews with participants from the intervention group. The results of the vocabulary exams not indicate any significant differences in scores between the intervention and control group. However, the qualitative data revealed students’ positive experiences with the additional context, indicating increased comprehension and a preference for the extended version of Examenidioom. The study concludes with practical suggestions for integration of the context-rich study material in English curriculums, along with five lesson designs.