English Vocabulary Learning Strategies between High-achievers and Low-achievers

Abstract

This study intends to compare the vocabulary learning strategies between high-achievers and low-achievers in junior high schools, and thus to explore effective vocabulary learning strategies to provide suggestions for English vocabulary teaching and learning practice. It is found out that high-achievers apply English vocabulary learning strategies more frequently than low-achieving students do. More specifically, in terms of meta-cognitive strategies, low-achievers use more pre-planning strategies, while high-achievers apply more selective attention strategies. For cognitive strategies, both high-achievers and low-achievers tend to use repetition strategies. Achievers are better at categorizing what they have learnt than low-achievers. For affective strategies, low-achievers apply reference books strategies most frequently and neither type of students uses authentic material strategies very often. Students’ beliefs, habits and attitudes towards vocabulary learning affect the application of strategies to some extent. High-achievers are better at utilizing the environment and even creating opportunities for English communication than underachievers. In addition, high-achievers have stronger learning motivation and they are also better at setting and achieving goals than low-achievers.