Exploratory action research on errors in essay writing
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Authors
Akinade, Oluwatimilehin Amos
Issue Date
2023
Educational Level
ISCED 2: Lower secondary education
Curriculum Area
Geographical Setting
Nigeria
Abstract
Context: This study was conducted at Ijebu Igbo Girls' Grammar School, Ogun State, Nigeria, with Junior Secondary School students aged 12-14. It explores the errors in essay writing among students with limited exposure to private education and reliance on public schooling resources.
Aims: To identify the types of errors students make in essay writing, understand the reasons behind these errors, and develop strategies to improve their writing skills.
Methods: The research employed classroom observations, focus group interviews with 18 students and five colleagues, and reflective writings to gather data on students' essay writing errors and attitudes towards writing.
Findings: Students exhibited a lack of skills in essay writing, demonstrated poor reading habits, and showed anxiety towards essay writing. Errors included out-of-context points, grammatical mistakes, and improper punctuation. Interventions such as developing essay outlines, practice demonstrations, encouraging peer feedback, and exposing students to grade-level readings improved students' essay writing skills.
Implications: Effective essay writing instruction may require a focus on structure, confidence building, and extensive reading, along with clear guidelines, scaffolding of learning, and promotion of peer support to enhance students' writing abilities and reduce anxiety.
Aims: To identify the types of errors students make in essay writing, understand the reasons behind these errors, and develop strategies to improve their writing skills.
Methods: The research employed classroom observations, focus group interviews with 18 students and five colleagues, and reflective writings to gather data on students' essay writing errors and attitudes towards writing.
Findings: Students exhibited a lack of skills in essay writing, demonstrated poor reading habits, and showed anxiety towards essay writing. Errors included out-of-context points, grammatical mistakes, and improper punctuation. Interventions such as developing essay outlines, practice demonstrations, encouraging peer feedback, and exposing students to grade-level readings improved students' essay writing skills.
Implications: Effective essay writing instruction may require a focus on structure, confidence building, and extensive reading, along with clear guidelines, scaffolding of learning, and promotion of peer support to enhance students' writing abilities and reduce anxiety.
Description
Keywords (free text)
english as a foreign language , essay writing , exploratory action research