Abstract

Vocabulary is a vital aspect in second language learning. The knowledge and mastery of vocabulary are able to give a direct effect on learning and mastery of a second language. The learning of Arabic language in Malaysia has also put the mastery of Arabic language vocabulary as the main goal. The aim of this survey is to explore the learning strategies of Arabic language vocabulary of pre-university students in Malaysia. The objectives of this study are to (a) measure the vocabulary learning strategies (VLS) usage level of pre university students, (b) to identify the highest strategy usage for each main vocabulary learning strategy (VLS) and (c) to identify the lowest strategy usage for each main vocabulary learning strategy (VLS). Questionnaires are used as the instrument which is developed based on the Schmitt’s VLS classification (1997). The sample involved 742 students in 15 religious high school (SMKA) and government-aided religious school (SABK). The study found that pre-university students have been using vocabulary learning strategies (VLS) moderately. Generally, the students used the determination strategy with the highest frequency compared to other strategies whilst the cognitive strategy is the least optimized one. Six strategies are used regularly while 12 strategies are not used frequently. The findings show that pre-university students tend to use strategies that are simpler, not creative and do not require high level of thinking. This situation somehow has displayed that the learning of Arabic language vocabulary in Malaysia is still very far from achieving the vocabulary learning objectives.

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