10.57647/JNTELL.2025.si-03

Contrasting the Effects of Massed vs. Spaced Practice of English Phrasal Verbs and Idioms Using WordUp on EFL Learners' Writing Performance

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  • Alireza Zaker*1,
  • Marzieh Tavakoli1,
  1. Department of Teaching English and Translation, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran

Revised: 2025-02-24

Accepted: 2025-02-01

Published in Issue 2025-10-19

Copyright (c) 2025 Alireza Zaker, Marzieh Tavakoli (Author)

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Zaker, A., & Tavakoli, M. (2025). Contrasting the Effects of Massed vs. Spaced Practice of English Phrasal Verbs and Idioms Using WordUp on EFL Learners’ Writing Performance. Journal of New Trends in English Language Learning (JNTELL), 4. https://doi.org/10.57647/JNTELL.2025.si-03
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Abstract

Acquiring proficiency in English phrasal verbs and idioms presents a significant challenge for EFL learners. This study investigates the efficacy of massed and spaced practice, delivered through the innovative WordUp AI app, on the writing performance of intermediate EFL learners. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 35 female EFL learners aged 12-16 (Mage = 14) selected through convenience sampling. Participants were divided into three groups: massed practice, spaced practice, and control. The OPT and PET tests were used to assess participants' homogeneity and writing performance. The massed and spaced practice groups received instruction via the WordUp AI app, each with distinct methodologies, while the control group followed traditional learning methods. Results from a one-way ANCOVA revealed that the spaced practice group significantly outperformed the other groups in the post-test. These findings underscore the potential of the WordUp app as a valuable tool for vocabulary acquisition and writing skill development. English language teachers are encouraged to explore the use of spaced practice and AI-powered language learning tools to enhance student outcomes.

Keywords

  • artificial intelligence,
  • idioms,
  • massed practice,
  • phrasal verbs,
  • spaced practice,
  • WordUp,
  • writing
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