The preliminary study in teaching speaking at MTs AlMuna Samarinda was not satisfied; the students were reluctant to speak English, were shy and not confident to express ideas orally, and were afraid of being ridiculed by their friends. Their speaking skills' average score was 63.06, and it was below the minimum passing grade, that is, 70. This study tried to improve the students' ability to speak through role-play. The action research was carried out in two stages. The instruments of the study are observation, documentation, and speaking test. The findings of the study show that role-play could improve the students' speaking ability. It was proven by improving their speaking skill, from 63.06 in the preliminary study up to 76.6 in cycle II.