【Abstract】Vocabulary knowledge is widely agreed upon as a significant factor in learners’ second language acquisition. This article concludes by arguing that non-English majors and English majors in vocational schools tend to favour different types of vocational learning strategies. It is also suggested that some effective strategies need to be introduced to students， especially those with relatively low language proficiency， need a push from teachers in vocabulary learning.
　　【Key words】English Vocabulary； Vocational Schools
　　1. Definition and classification of vocabulary learning strategies （VLS）
　　1.1 Discovery Strategies
　　Discovery strategies are mainly used when learners encounter new words （Schmitt， 1997）. Using dictionaries and guessing or inferring word meanings belong to determination strategies， while asking teachers or classmates for information about a new word is included in social strategies.
　　Determination Strategies. As a type of determination strategy， the use of dictionaries is generally expected and actively encouraged in language learning. It is also argued that an effective dictionary can not only present learners adequate information about one word， but will also help learners to memorise and gain comprehensive knowledge of its use （Nation， 2001）. Making guesses and inferences about new words has been discussed and analysed in many studies （eg. Nassaji， 2003）. Although there is no exact answer to what proportion of unknown words can be guessed from context （Nation， 2001）， learners， especially those with higher verbal ability， can guess word meanings correctly from texts.
　　Social Strategies. Social strategies can also be used when learners encounter new words. Interaction with someone who knows the word can help learners to discover the meanings of the word easier and faster. However， it is recognised that the transferred knowledge can be restricted and incorrect （Schmitt， 1997）.
　　1.2 Consolidation Strategies
　　Learners also need to acquire more knowledge about how to use the word. In order to consolidate word meanings in memory for future use， learners tend to use consolidation vocabulary learning strategies， which cover social strategies，， memory strategies， cognitive and metacognitive strategies.
　　Social Strategies. Social strategies can not only be used for discovering vocabulary meanings， but also for practicing vocabulary. They can help learners stabilise information by speaking to native speakers or even language teachers inside or outside the class.