Evaluating Vocabulary Proficiency: A Synonym and Antonym Analysis of English Education Department Students at Muhammadiyah University of North Maluku

Abstract

This research study aims to assess the vocabulary competence of fifth-semester English Education Department students at Muhammadiyah University of North Maluku, focusing on synonyms and antonyms. The study involved 17 active students, and data collection occurred on January 13, 2022. A qualitative descriptive method was employed, utilizing a test sheet as the primary instrument. The collected data were quantitatively analyzed, employing descriptive statistics such as accuracy rates and response times, to evaluate participants' performance and overall proficiency level. The process involved meticulous checking and correction of students' answer sheets, followed by grading based on a specific scoring system. The findings reveal a highly satisfactory level of competence among students in understanding synonyms and antonyms, as evidenced by the matching test sheet results. The majority of respondents answered the questions correctly, demonstrating a commendable grasp of the concepts. The average scores for synonyms and antonyms were 67.45 (in the good category) and 73.72 (in the good category), respectively. These results indicate a considerable level of interest and proficiency among students in acquiring knowledge of synonyms and antonyms.