Using Semantic Mapping Technique In Vocabulary Teaching At Pre-Intermediate Level

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of using Semantic Mapping Technique in comparison to traditional technique in vocabulary learning and to find out whether there is a relationship between students' beliefs about vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs) and what strategies they prefer to use. 32 students at the pre- intermediate level of English from Selcuk University, at the Department of School of Foreign Languages took part in the study. Quantitative data was collected through a two-part questionnaire. The results revealed that students' beliefs and their preferences were related. For the experimental study, target vocabulary items were taught with Semantic Mapping technique to experimental group and control group was introduced with traditional technique. To analyze the difference between semantic mapping technique and traditional technique, t-test calculations were used with the results of the pre-test and post-test. According to the results, semantic mapping technique is more effective than the traditional teclmique in vocabulary learning. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of ALSC 2012