Enhancing ESL Speaking Fluency Through Structured Speaking Activities: The Role of Micro Speaking Tasks and Think Pair Share in Reducing Communication Anxiety
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/k0tfzg42Keywords:
communication anxiety, ESL, micro-speaking tasks, speaking fluency, structured speaking activitiesAbstract
This study examines the impact of structured speaking activities on the development of speaking fluency and the reduction of communication anxiety in English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. Adopting a qualitative documentary approach, the research is based on a systematic literature review guided by PRISMA 2020 guidelines (Page et al., 2021; Haddaway et al., 2022). A total of 162 records were initially identified across major academic databases, of which 28 peer-reviewed studies were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria.
The analysis focuses on three central variables: speaking fluency, communication anxiety, and structured speaking activities, with particular attention to micro-speaking tasks and the Think–Pair–Share strategy. Findings indicate that fluency development is enhanced when learners engage in repeated, structured, and cognitively manageable speaking tasks that promote speech continuity, reduce hesitation, and improve control of oral production. At the same time, communication anxiety is reduced when speaking activities incorporate preparation time, peer interaction, and gradual exposure to public performance.
The study argues that structured speaking activities function as both cognitive and affective mediators, enabling learners to process language more efficiently while increasing confidence and willingness to communicate. These findings suggest that effective speaking instruction should not focus solely on increasing speaking time, but on designing pedagogical conditions that balance cognitive demands with emotional support. As a pedagogical contribution, the study proposes a simple classroom routine Prepare–Practice–Sharethat integrates repetition, scaffolding, and collaborative interaction to foster fluency and reduce anxiety in ESL contexts.
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