Word and learner variables in guessing unknown words in a second language

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to find out if the word and learner variables have a relation with guessing unknown words from context. There were two main variables of the study called subject variables and word factors. Subject variables included proficiency, vocabulary size and field sensitivity of learners. Word factors consisted of morphological complexity and word class. The target words used in the study were divided as simple and complex considering morphological complexity and as nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs in terms of word class. The study was conducted in Faculty of Education, Uludağ University, Turkey. 1st and 4th year students of English Language Teaching Department were chosen as subjects. The subjects were given a Cloze Test in order to measure their proficiency. Also Vocabulary Size Checklist was used to measure the vocabulary size of the subjects. Then, GEFT (Group Embedded Figures Test) was applied to the subjects to see their field sensitivity. Additionally, Guessing Test was given to the subjects in order to gather information about guessing and word factors relation. The results revealed that no relation was found between subject variables (proficiency, vocabulary size and field sensitivity) and guessing unknown words from context. But, in terms of word factors, it was found that simple words were guessed jnore successfully than complex words. Beside, verbs and adjectives had a higher guessing rate compared to nouns and adverbs when considering word class as far as simple words go. No differences were found among the four word classes for complex words.