EXPLORING THE ROLE OF VOCABULARY SUPPORT LISTS IN IMPROVING LEXICAL RANGE IN B1 WRITING TASKS

Abstract

Vocabulary range is widely recognised as one of the most significant indicators of writing quality at the B1 level of English proficiency. Despite its importance, many B1 learners demonstrate limited lexical diversity in their writing tasks, often relying on a narrow set of high-frequency words. This study investigates the impact of Vocabulary Support Lists (VSLs) on enhancing lexical range in B1-level English writing tasks. Using a quasi-experimental design with a control group (n = 5) and an experimental group (n = 5), participants were assigned opinion-writing tasks under different conditions: the control group wrote without any vocabulary support, while the experimental group was provided with topic-specific VSLs during writing. Pre- and post-test scores were analysed using lexical diversity measures. Results revealed a substantial difference in performance: the control group achieved a mean score of 43%, whereas the experimental group achieved a mean score of 95%. These findings suggest that strategically designed VSLs can serve as an effective pedagogical scaffold for expanding lexical range at the B1 level. Furthermore, this study introduces and validates the 5R Writing Method as a structured approach to developing lexically rich paragraphs. Implications for EFL teachers, curriculum designers, and materials developers are discussed.