Examining the effects of oral reproduction and summary writing vocabulary tasks on L2 word learning: Technique feature analysis on trial

Abstract

The current study investigated the influence of oral reproduction and summary writing vocabulary tasks on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ learning and retention of new foreign language (L2) words. To this end, 66 advanced EFL learners were randomly selected and assigned to two experimental and one control conditions. The participants in all three groups were required to read eight texts which included a total of 40 target words during eight weeks of treatment and to perform designated tasks which were: reading and writing a summary incorporating the target words, and reading and reproducing the content of the passage orally using the target words. The results of immediate and delayed recognition and recall vocabulary post-tests indicated that while both tasks resulted in significant vocabulary learning, the “oral reproduction” condition was more effective than “summary writing” in terms of long-term retention of target words. The findings are explained and justified in light of the predictions of Technique Feature Analysis.