An Error Analysis of Expository Essay Writing of English as Second Language (ESL) Undergraduate Learners in Pakistan

  • Moizza Ghyas Riphah International University
  • Hira Sakhawat The Citizen Foundation School
Keywords: error analysis, expository essay writing, grammatical errors, vocabulary errors, syntax errors, language learning strategies

Abstract

This study focuses on the expository essay writing of undergraduate of English as Second Language (ESL) learners in Pakistan. The study aims to identify the most common errors made by these students and analyze the reasons behind those. The study uses the quantitative method to conduct error analysis. To conduct error analysis, a sample of eight expository essays written by undergraduate second language learners of the selected college is analyzed, and the errors are identified and categorized. The data analysis identified the errors made by second language learners in expository essays, including grammatical, vocabulary, syntax and organization errors. The sample students also struggled with using the correct verb tense, forming proper sentence structure, or accurately using prepositions. The results of the study provided insights into the areas that need improvement in the learning of English as a second language in Pakistan, as well as the strategies to address the identified errors. Further research may include more areas of grammar.

Author Biographies

Moizza Ghyas, Riphah International University

MPhil Scholar

Department of English Linguistics

Hira Sakhawat, The Citizen Foundation School

English Language Instructor

Published
2024-03-25
Section
Articles