EBONY: Journal of English Language Teaching, Linguistics, and Literature

An Authenticity Analysis of Reading Materials in an EFL Textbook

Syarifah Nur Halima, Pasca Kalisa — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This research examines the authenticity of reading materials in the English for Nusantara untuk SMP/MTs Kelas IX textbook, using Pinner’s (2014) authenticity continuum theory as the analytical framework. The research employs a descriptive qualitative design through document analysis of five selected reading materials. Seventeen indicators across four dimensions, individual relevance, target language community, classroom applicability, and real-world connection, were used to assess the materials. The findings reveal that the textbooks perform well in terms of structural and pedagogical authenticity, demonstrated by reading materials that are aligned with the curriculum, appropriate to the students' level, and engaging. However, the analysis also revealed a lack of cultural references, real-world content, and opportunities for student interaction, which are crucial for developing communicative competence and cross-cultural awareness. Overall, the textbook offers partially authentic reading materials. It is recommended that future textbook revisions include richer cultural content and more interactive tasks to connect language learning with real-life communication and global contexts.

Investigating the Challenges Faced by EFL Students in Translating Cooking Recipes

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to investigate the challenges faced by EFL students in translating cooking recipes. It was conducted on sixth-semester students from class B in the translation course. The research employed a qualitative descriptive method with thematic analysis to identify and interpret key patterns within the data. Data collection was carried out through a triangulation approach, combining mixed-method questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed four main themes and one additional theme related to the students’ difficulties: (1) vocabulary-related challenges, (2) grammar and equivalence issues, (3) translation quality and self-confidence, (4) limited exposure and cultural context, and (5) translation methods and procedures as an additional theme. These challenges reflect the complexity of translating procedural texts, especially recipes, which often include culturally bound terms, specific measurements, and imperative instructions. The study concludes that translating recipes presents significant linguistic and contextual challenges for EFL students. It suggests the need for more targeted strategies and exposure to authentic materials in translation to help students improve their translation and overcome practical difficulties in translating specialized texts like recipes.

Exploring the Techniques Used by the Machine and Human Translation in Translating The Gift of the Magi into Indonesian

Erma Sujiyani, Sulamit Syeba, Maida Norahmi , Riniyati Riniyati — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The pros and cons of which one is better in producing good result of translation between Machine Translation (MT) and Human Translation (HT) has been going on for many years. In the attempt to observe which is better between MT and HT, this article focuses on exploring the techniques used by U-Dictionary as a MT and Maggie Tiojakin as a HT in translating The Gift of the Magi into Indonesian. Data in this research are the words, phrases, clauses and sentences related to the translation techniques in the original version of The Gift of the Magi and the two translation versions. The collected data are analyzed qualitatively by using Molina and Albir’s (2002) theory. The results describe that Maggie Tiojakin used 12 techniques; they are adaptation, amplification, compensation, description, discursive creation, established equivalent, generalization, literal translation, modulation, particularization, reduction, and transposition. Meanwhile, U-Dictionary used 8 techniques; they are amplification, borrowing, calque, established equivalent, literal translation, modulation, reduction, and transposition. The dominant translation technique used by Maggie Tiojakin is discursive creation (24.54%), whereas in U-Dictionary, it is literal translation (47.27%). From the different translation techniques used, it can be proven that HT uses more various techniques and has better translation result than MT, in which the translation of the literary works especially a short story done by HT is more accurate, readable, and acceptable.

The Descriptive Analysis of Students' Writing Job Application Letters by Using Canva WorkSheet

Maya Ulyani, Widuri Indah Dwi Jayanti — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Writing is a fundamental skill in English language learning. However, it poses challenges for vocational students, especially when composing job application letters. Mastery in organizing content, utilizing appropriate formal language, and applying accurate grammar is essential for effective professional communication. This study aims to analyze students' ability to write job application letters using Canva Worksheets as an instructional tool. A descriptive qualitative research design was applied, focusing on eleventh-grade culinary program students at SMKN 6 Yogyakarta. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and student worksheets. A rubric-based scoring system was used to evaluate students' writing performance, considering content, organization, vocabulary, language use, and mechanics. The analysis followed Miles and Huberman’s framework, involving data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Findings revealed that although some students demonstrated strength in content and organization, a significant number struggled with vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics. Only 30% achieved high scores in content, and merely 16% excelled in vocabulary. Teacher insights affirmed challenges in structuring ideas and applying formal expressions. Canva Worksheets provided structured, visually appealing resources that increased student motivation and improved writing organization. Future studies should investigate long-term impacts of digital tools on writing proficiency.

Revolution in Fable Universe : Introducing Technology in Children's Literature

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This research explores the integration of technology into fable narratives as a means of introducing digital literacy to children, thus, it aims at investigating the perspectives of three experienced literature lecturers on how technology can be embedded within fable stories, focusing on narrative structure and moral conflicts. Employing a qualitative research design with a narrative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with literature. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the findings. Results reveal a shared view that technology should not merely serve as a narrative backdrop but should catalyse critical reflections on ethical, social, and personal dimensions of digital life. Fables are seen as an adaptable medium to instil both traditional values and modern critical thinking about technology. The study concludes that technologically infused fables have the potential to enrich children’s literature, balancing aesthetic integrity with the demands of digital literacy. It is suggested that future research expands into creating and testing specific fable models within educational settings.

Keywords: Fable, Technology, Children’s Literature, Digital Literacy

Transformative Experience of Reading Digital Literature in Social Media

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Social media is inevitable part of culture and as the consequence, reading behaviour transforms. This study investigates how digital literature in social media is leveraged through Instagram Reels and TikTok videos, transforming the reading experience in English language acquisition. Employing a phenomenological qualitative methodology, data were gathered via in-depth interviews with three fourth-semester students who participated in the Digital Literature course. The thematic analysis of the data uncovers three primary findings: first, digital literature is favoured for its concise and familiar format that aligns with everyday experiences; second, the interpretation of texts is facilitated by themes and language styles that closely mirror the emotional realities of students; third, digital platforms create opportunities for self-expression, allowing students to experience freedom in writing, sharing, and reflecting on their own personal experiences. The findings of this study highlight that digital literature transcends being merely an alternative medium in literacy education; it embodies a humanistic practice that intertwines language, emotions, and existence. The findings suggest a need to rethink English teaching methods to be more flexible, inclusive, and focused on the emotional experiences of students.

Poetic Devices and Cultural Representation in Lazarus' The New Colossus

Dewa Ayu Febry Hendrayani, Luh Putu Laksminy, I Gusti Ayu Mahatma Agung — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus is a well-known poem that expresses ideas of immigration, freedom, and national identity. This study aims to analyze the poem through two perspectives, namely poetic structure and cultural meaning. It focuses on how poetic devices such as metaphor, imagery, symbolism, alliteration and personification contribute to shaping the poem’s message. Using a qualitative method, the research applied Kemple's (2019) semiotic theory to interpret poetic devices as symbolic signs, while Hall's (2013) theory of representation was used to examine how the poem reflects and responds to changing social contexts. The analysis reveals that these poetic elements build a persuasive and emotional message that supports the poem’s theme of inclusivity and hope. It also shows that the meaning of the poem has shifted over time, especially in relation to modern immigration debates. This research highlights the poem’s dual role as a literary text and a cultural artefact. The findings suggest that poetic language can carry lasting social influence and that literature remains a relevant tool in understanding national identity.

Lecturer’s Voice of Teaching Speaking through Zoom Meeting Platform Narrative Study in Banjarmasin

Vebrianti Umar — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Speaking is one of English skill that supports the communication in class : the lecturer must be able to convey and explain material to the student, the student also should be active in sharing ideas, information and positive argumentation. In this digital era, lecturer build student’ speaking skill flexibility by conducting online teaching process. One of the online platforms for teaching the skill is zoom meeting. It offers some features that facilitate online communication between lecturer and student : synchronous audio and video conferencing.

In the teaching process using zoom meeting, the lecturer undoubtedly experience and faces various situations. Therefore, this qualitative research, which emphasizes a narative design, researcher investigate the lecturer experiences through observation and interview. Moreover, all the research activity were carefully and systematically documented. The final stage is data analysis using a coding system and interpret the analyzed data to derive meaningful research outcomes.

This research proved the features of the zoom meeting : share screen, white board and breakout room support the teaching and learning of speaking.. However, the lecturer also find a connection problem It means that the use of zoom meeting in the class should be equipped by the good internet connection.

Keywords: Speaking Skill, Zoom Meeting, Narative Design

Representation of Women’s Struggle in Red Snake: Sister in Arms Film

Dhiyaul Saninah, Jonathan Irene Sartika Dewi M, Wilma Prafitri — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feminism is a movement advocating for gender equality in society, addressing issues that impact women, and against gender-based violence and harassment. This study examines the gender conflicts faced by female characters in the film Red Snake Sister in Arms. This study seeks to elucidate the challenges faced by women shown in the film Red Snake Sister in Arms. The depiction of gender conflict illustrates women's efforts to assert their aspirations within society. This essay employs a qualitative technique and adopts a feminist theoretical framework. It utilizes McQueen's theory for gender conflict and Petrie and Boggs' theory for characterization, focusing on the film Red Snake Sister in Arms. The manifestations of gender conflict include the pursuit of love, the quest for aspirations, and the confrontation with life's realities. researchers affirm that female characters are portrayed as embodiments of gender conflicts in the film Red Snake Sister in Arms. This is illustrated through the acts of female characters and representations of gender conflicts. This is also exemplified by other characters that oppose the gender battle.

Indonesian EFL Teachers’ Challenges: Integrating ICT in EFL Teaching

Dedy Arianto Bannus, Emeral Emeral — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The influence of ICT in language teaching has become a new, exciting, and demanding area to explore. Moreover, concerning teachers' role as facilitators, it is necessary to explore how they perceive ICT use in language teaching and to describe the challenges they have been experiencing during its implementation. This qualitative study explored the integration and challenges of using ICT in EFL teaching. The participants of this study were six Indonesian EFL teachers from Central Kalimantan Province, and they were interviewed to gain information. The data from semi-structured interviews were thematically analyzed. The results of this qualitative study indicated that the teachers have integrated technological tools into their teaching activities in terms of web-based and non-web-based learning. Laptops and mobile phones were the most prominent technological tools used by the teachers in the classroom. Those technologies are purposively used in teaching EFL skills and evaluation. However, the implementation is challenging, as the teachers argued that they needed more professional training in dealing with technical issues, limited technological tools, internet network issues, and the digital divide. The outcomes strengthen the comprehension of the implementation of technologies in EFL learning and trigger advanced investigation about educational technology influence in the EFL education realm.