EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING VOCABULARY IN EFL CLASSROOMS
A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Abstract
Vocabulary is an essential component of language learning, especially in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. This study aims to identify effective strategies for teaching vocabulary to EFL learners through a literature review of ten scholarly articles. The findings reveal that a combination of methods, including context-based learning, visual aids, multimedia tools, interactive activities, and explicit teaching, enhances vocabulary acquisition and retention. Contextual learning helps students connect words to real-life situations, while visual aids and multimedia make lessons engaging. Interactive activities, such as games, foster motivation and collaboration among learners. Explicit teaching, particularly for beginners, provides structured guidance for mastering vocabulary. Despite these strategies, challenges such as low motivation, limited resources, and retention difficulties persist. This study emphasizes the need for teachers to adapt strategies to students' needs, encourage independent practice, and integrate various methods for effective instruction. The findings provide practical insights for educators seeking to improve vocabulary teaching in diverse EFL contexts.
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