Abstract
Vocabulary knowledge is crucial in the understanding of a material and in the development of the macro-skills, most especially reading. When reading, a person may overestimate or underestimate his/ her vocabulary knowledge, thinking that she/ he knows the meaning of words in the text. Also, to repair the lack of knowledge of a word in the text and to ensure comprehension, she/ he may use vocabulary-learning strategies (VLS). This basic qualitative study aimed to identify and compare the presumed vocabulary knowledge and actual vocabulary knowledge and the VLS of grade 12 students of Angeles City, Philippines. To answer research questions, the researchers used an expository reading text, a semi-structured interview guide, and a researcher-made vocabulary test as instruments. They also utilized descriptive statistics and inductive and thematic analysis of qualitative data. Findings of this study reveal that the participants' presumed vocabulary knowledge ranges from 57% to 97% of the self-reported unfamiliar words while their actual vocabulary knowledge ranges from 50% to 91%, which presumed vocabulary knowledge is higher than actual vocabulary knowledge, and that participants use eight VLS classified into themes. These results imply the need to enhance the curriculum, specifically on vocabulary, to facilitate learning of strategies and to provide more practice of the VLS through reading.
Highlights
Vocabulary refers to the depth and breadth of words that people use, recognize, and respond to and is essential in communication
When asked what words they considered difficult, participants overestimated their vocabulary knowledge by naming fewer words as compared with the words they failed to answer correctly
The participants could name any word in the text as difficult, they named the underlined words or those in the vocabulary test
Summary
Vocabulary refers to the depth and breadth of words that people use, recognize, and respond to and is essential in communication. While comprehension and communication are possible with incorrect grammar, they are far fetched without vocabulary. That is why developing knowledge on vocabulary is a lifelong process and is of life-like importance [1]. Vocabulary is necessary in the development of all the macro skills which are speaking, reading, writing, and listening. People need rich vocabulary to grasp messages encountered in text and in conversations. They need an extensive expressive vocabulary to write essays and researches and do oral presentations anywhere [2]
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