Abstract:

in the use of data-driven learning (DDL) approaches. Most studies of DDL have focused on the acquisition of vocabulary items, including a wide range of information necessary for their correct usage. One type of vocabulary that has yet to be properly investigated has been linking adverbials. Linking adverbials serve to assist writers in giving cohesion to their texts. They are also difficult for second language writers to acquire, with many language learners misusing them semantically and stylistically. This study attempts to determine if DDL can assist students with this task. It investigates the correct semantic usage and proportion of academic linking adverbials in student writing both before and following treatment. Results indicate that DDL techniques do in fact help students acquire and better employ linking adverbials in their writing. Students receiving DDL instruction made greater improvements in their use of linking adverbials, both semantically and stylistically, compared to a group that received traditional linking adverbial instruction.

Author: James Robert Garner