Text Copying as a Culture-Based Learning Strategy: A Case of EFL Grammar Learners in an Arabic Context

Abstract

As a well-established strategy in the educational traditions of Islam, copying texts (imitating a model) has played a crucial role in learning the Holy Quran and the Arabic language. This study delves into the necessity of understanding how this traditional strategy influences the learning of foreign languages. Using 18 hours of strategy-based instruction, this paper examines the efficacy of text copying in learning grammar (independent variable), as evidenced by a series of grammar tests and surveys assessing learners’ perceptions (dependent variables). The study draws upon data from two groups of college-level English as Foreign Language (EFL) learners, comprising a control group (n=10) and an experimental group (n=11), all categorized at the A2 proficiency level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The findings suggest that text copying enhances learners’ grammatical understanding and contributes to overall satisfaction in learning a foreign language, as indicated by improved test scores and positive learner feedback.