Effectiveness of Mnemonic Strategies to Boost Vocabulary Retention in ESL Reading Classes: A Conceptual Paper

Abstract

Vocabulary acquisition and retention are two essential aspects that an English as Second Language (ESL) learner must acquire to master the four core skills of English, especially reading. One of the strategies that has been widely applied to improve vocabulary acquisition and retention is mnemonic strategy. Despite its wide use at enhancing reading skill, studies on the effectiveness of mnemonic strategies at improving reading skill among the ESL learners remains limited. Thus, this paper proposes a study to examine the effectiveness of mnemonic strategies and to determine the type of mnemonic strategy found to be effective in boosting vocabulary retention in ESL reading classes. This concept paper also proposes the conceptual framework, research methodology, data collection and analysis that are suitable to be employed in the study. Descriptive statistical analysis using SPSS software version 27 is propounded to calculate and analyse the data. A quantitative research employing questionnaire and tests will be used in this proposed study. The recommended participants for this study are 120 ESL primary pupils who will be selected through convenience purposive sampling method. Finally, implementation of mnemonics will enhance vocabulary retention, generate meaningful learning experience, and provide insight for the educators on the concept and effectiveness of mnemonic strategies in boosting vocabulary learning in reading classes.