USING VOCABULARY LEARNING STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE LEXICAL KNOWLEDGE IN SIXTH GRADE STUDENTS FROM SECONDARY SCHOOL

Abstract

This investigation is related to improving lexical English knowledge through vocabulary learning strategies. It was developed with sixth grade students of a public school in Floridablanca (Colombia). It emerged due to the interest given in renewing pedagogical practices in this educational institution, which led this research to be adjusted to the school schedule in order to maintain the syllabus assigned to this course. This research was carried out with 30 students aged between 11 and 13 who reside nearby the school. Vocabulary learning strategies intended to increase the lexical corpus in English of students were used; to do this memory strategies proposed in the taxonomy of Schmitt were employed. As well, the effects of using these strategies on students were analyzed, so different tests and evaluations were used; for instance, an adaptation of the vocabulary knowledge scale or VKS, entrance tests and cumulative tests. After carrying out interviews, a follow-up on a journal of and receiving students’ opinions on each class; it was concluded that strategies can be a good instrument to enhance student vocabulary level. After comparing the results of different tests, most of students presented an improvement in their vocabulary acquisition in English.