The Effect of Task-Based Language Teaching on Aspects of Speaking Skills

Abstract

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) is a communicative approach to language learning that emphasizes the use of language in real-life situations. It involves learners working on tasks that are meaningful and purposeful, which can help increase motivation and engagement. This study provides an overview of an experiment conducted to examine the impact of TBLT on students’ speaking skills. The participants were 72 grade 10 students who joined a TBLT programme for a period of one semester during 2022-2023 in one of the schools called (Soran Co-educational High School) in Soran, Iraqi Kurdistan. A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test research approach was utilized to answer the research questions. The results revealed that there was an increase in all five language proficiency measures (fluency, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and grammar pronunciation). The test scores indicated that TBLT improved the students’ speaking skills and had a great impact on fluency in particular.  In conclusion, by addressing the identified challenges and further supporting the implementation of TBLT, educators can enhance students' oral proficiency and promote effective language learning in the selected educational context.