Résumé:
When learning a new language much emphasize is placed on vocabulary which would enable
the learner to use the language effectively and appropriately. However, the lack of vocabulary
causes difficulties for learners when learning and using the productive skills. Thus, the
presented study aimed at investigating the difficulties encountered by first year EFL students
in learning vocabulary that prevent them from enhancing the productive skills at Mohamed
Essedik Ben Yehia University. It is assumed that first year EFL students at the department of
English face difficulties when learning vocabulary. These difficulties related to grammar,
pronunciation, spelling and complexity. It is also presupposed that the difficulties encountered
by first year EFL students may prevent them from enhancing the productive skills. To achieve
this study, a questionnaire was administered to 63 first year EFL students at the department of
English at Mohamed Seddik Ben Yahia University. The results revealed that first year EFL
students face difficulties in learning vocabulary difficulties related to grammar, pronunciation,
length and complexity, and spelling. The analyses also showed that these difficulties prevent
students from enhancing the speaking and the writing skills and the lack of vocabulary also
was an obstacle for them to develop their level in both skills.
