Target Vocabulary in Turkish Textbooks in Terms of Quantity, Quality and Consistency

Abstract

This study, structured through the content analysis method, one of the qualitative research methods, aims to identify and examine the target words, idioms, and proverbs intended to be taught through activities and assessment practices in Turkish textbooks. To achieve this goal, all Turkish textbooks (19 in total) used in the 2023–2024 academic year were reviewed by the researchers, and the target words, idioms, and proverbs intended to be taught within these sources were identified. Following this process, a frequency analysis of the collected data revealed that there was no consistency in terms of the quality and quantity of the target vocabulary among textbooks prepared for the same grade level. Furthermore, the target words in textbooks prepared for different grade levels were found to be similar, with some words that students were already expected to have learned being repeatedly included in vocabulary teaching activities. It was also determined that the number of target words did not show a consistent increase or decrease in parallel with grade levels, and that words with very low usage frequency and little relevance to everyday life were presented as target words. Consequently, the study concluded that there are specific issues with the selection, consistency, gradation, number, repetition, and quality of target words in Turkish textbooks. To address these issues, the study suggests the development of target word lists by grade level, the standardization of the words and the number of words to be taught, the establishment of coordination and interaction among textbook authors to ensure gradation and consistency in textbooks, and the addition of a guide on target vocabulary to the Turkish teaching program. © (2025), (T.C. Milli Egitim Bakanligi). All rights reserved.