THE EFFECTS OF VOCABULARY MASTERY AND SELF-CONFIDENCE TOWARDS THE STUDENTS’ WRITING SKILLS OF ENGLISH DESCRIPTIVE TEXT AT PRIVATE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the effects of vocabulary mastery and self-confidence on the English descriptive writing skills of grade 7 students from SMP Al Fityan School and SMP Mutiara Insani Islamic School during the 2023-2024 academic year. Specifically, the study examines (1) the combined influence of vocabulary mastery and self-confidence on writing skills, (2) the individual effect of vocabulary mastery, and (3) the individual effect of self-confidence. The study follows a quantitative methodology, utilizing test results and questionnaires as data collection tools. A sample of 60 students, 30 from each school, was analyzed using statistical methods. The findings reveal significant effects of both vocabulary mastery and self-confidence on students’ writing skills, as indicated by a significance value (Sig.) of 0.000 < 0.05 and an F value of 245.648. Vocabulary mastery alone shows a significant positive effect on writing skills, with a Sig. of 0.000 < 0.05 and a t-value of 4.432. Similarly, self-confidence also positively influences writing skills, with a Sig. of 0.001 < 0.05 and a t-value of 3.591. These results underscore the importance of both vocabulary knowledge and self-confidence in enhancing students' descriptive text writing abilities. Future research could explore interventions that further develop these skills.