The relationship between language learning strategies and vocabulary size: The case of Iraqi learners of EFL

The crucial role of strategies in effective language learning is unquestionable, especially when the purpose of using language learning strategies is to enhance learner's vocabulary size. This is because of the prominent place of vocabulary size in language learning and it is a vital aspect of lexical knowledge. Thus, this thesis examines the relationship between language learning strategies and vocabulary size in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context. With this aim, 122 students at Sulaimani University, School of Languages were chosen as the participants of the study. The data were collected in two phases. In the quantitative phase, the data were collected through Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) and Vocabulary Levels Test (VLT) while in the qualitative phase a semi-structured group interview was administered. So as to uncover the frequency of language learning strategy use and sub-category strategy preference, descriptive statistics were calculated. A Pearson product-moment correlation co-efficient was used to find out whether there is a relationship between language learning strategies and high vocabulary size. Finally, an independent-samples t-test was administered to reveal whether there is a significant difference between learners with high vocabulary size and low vocabulary size in their language learning strategy use. The results indicated that the learners applied language learning strategies with an average of 3.2. Similarly, the results for sub-category strategy use indicated that the learners with high vocabulary size employed metacognitive strategies most with an average of 4.66 and compensation strategies least with an average of 3.41. Additionally, the results showed that learners with low vocabulary size used metacognitive strategies most with an average of 3.50 and memory strategies least with an average of 2.86. According to the analysis results, there was a strong positive correlation between language learning strategy use and high vocabulary size (r=.96, p<.01, n=11). Moreover, a significant difference between the learners with large vocabulary size and small vocabulary size was revealed in their use of language learning strategies (t=13.81, df=24.87, p<.05). In addition, the findings of the interview supported those of the quantitative analyses in that the learners with high vocabulary size deployed more and various strategies than the learners with low vocabulary size. Key words: Language learning strategies, Vocabulary size, Vocabulary learning, Vocabulary knowledge