A Study on Language Learning Strategy Use of Young Turkish Learners

Abstract

In this study, language learning strategies (LLS) of 111 8th grade students learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in three private primary schools in Edirne are initially investigated. The effect of gender and the achievement of students on the use of LLS are also examined. The data are collected through the Turkish version of SILL of Karahan (2007) adapted from Lan’s (2005) Taiwanese Children’s SILL and are analysed through SPSS (17.0). At the end of the study, the most commonly used LLS by the 8th grade students were investigated. Beside this, the ten most and the least frequently used LLS were also examined. Among these strategies metacognitive, social and affective strategies were found to be the most frequently used language learning strategies whereas memory and cognitive strategies are found to be rarely used ones. In the study, the effect of gender on the use of LLS was identified. Females were found to use LLS more widely than males. Yet, no significant difference was found on the use of LLS between successful and average students.