Is It Time to Consider Science High School-Specific English? A Quantitative Case Study

Abstract

The unique nature of each context has been recognized in applied linguistics to particularly address the specific needs of learners. This research aims to elucidate the specific requisites pertaining to English language skills within the cohort of high school science students. This quantitative study consists of 156 English as a foreign language students studying in high schools of science. The assembly of this study cohort was accomplished through the application of criterion sampling. Data pertinent to the study were gathered through a 28-item Likert-scale questionnaire. The analysis of the dataset was conducted employing descriptive statistical methods. Study results reveal that the majority of students at high schools of science desire to hone their speaking and reading skills to facilitate day-to-day interactions. However, a distinctive inclination surfaces in favour of scholarly and professional linguistic domains for the purpose of listening and writing. The findings underscore a compelling need for high school of science students to cultivate autonomy in their pursuit of EFL mastery, while engaging in collaborative endeavours with their peers. In light of the findings, the thoughtful restructuring of English language skill materials and activities is recommended. This restructuring should also be underpinned by a deliberate incorporation of the distinct requirements unique to high school science students. Pedagogical implications are discussed.