Exploring the Use of Educational Games as a Strategy to Teach Grammar for Young Learners

Abstract

Despite the central role that grammar plays in the language teaching/learning process, it is often considered as difficult, uninteresting and boring. The aim of the study in hand is to explore the potential impact of educational games on enhancing the grammar learning of second-year students at Zazoua Ahmed middle school –Jijel. It is hypothesised that if a teacher uses educational games, the students’ grammar learning will be enhanced. In order to test the research hypothesis and achieve its aims, a mixed methodology was adopted, including an experiment, classroom observation and an interview. The sample of the study consisted of 62 pupils enrolled at Zazoua Ahmed middle school, belonging to two classes; experimental and control groups. In addition to two teachers of English teaching in the same school with whom the semi-interview was conducted. The results of the data analysis revealed that there was a significant statistical difference between both groups in favor of the experimental group who received the treatment which proved that the use of educational games enhances students’ grammar learning. Moreover, the findings showed that educational games increase students’ motivation, interaction, and collaboration inside the language classroom, and provides a positive classroom atmosphere which engages the students to participate. Furthermore, the findings showed that the implementation of educational games requires suitable classes, sufficient time and proper equipment in order to achieve fruitful outcomes.