Evaluating the Effects of a Topic-Based Workbook of Idioms on Candidates Preparing for International Language Examinations

Abstract

Idiomatic competence is a crucial component of advanced foreign language proficiency. Despite their prevalence and communicative value, idioms remain one of the most challenging aspects of language learning, especially for students preparing for high-stakes international examinations, where lexical sophistication and naturalness of expression are key indicators of proficiency.
The following study is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a topic-based workbook targeting idioms for developing learners’ idiomatic competence in high-stakes international examination contexts. An initial needs analysis was conducted, which included a questionnaire administered to students and interviews with two experienced language teachers. Based on the findings obtained from these methods, the workbook was designed to incorporate a combination of authentic input, controlled practice, metacognitive activities, and communicative tasks that encourage the meaningful use of idiomatic language.
In the final stage of the study, the workbook was implemented in a trial session with a small group of learners at a B1–B2+ proficiency level. Prior to the intervention, participants completed a pre-test consisting of two Use of English tasks and a Speaking task. Following this, students received a usual preparation lesson, but the teacher used the workbook as a complementary material. Following this instructional session, students were given a post-test with a similar structure from the pre-test in order to measure changes in their performance after the intervention.
The results indicated an overall improvement in students’ idiomatic competence. These preliminary results show that the workbook intervention was generally successful and that these type of materials can have a positive impact on the enhancement of idiomatic competence in learners. Further research with larger samples and longer intervention periods is recommended to confirm these preliminary findings.