Orthographic realizations of a selected sample of students of English as a second language
Date
1976
Authors
Warbey, Margaretta
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Abstract
This research investigated the problems adult nonĀ-native speakers experience in their acquisition of English language spelling strategies. The problems inherent in the spelling system of English were examined by the writer. The research of other investigators in the areas of applied linguistics and language skills acquisition was examined for insights. To further clarify the areas of spelling difficulty encountered by second language learners, an experimental spelling test, incorporating several potentially troublesome segments, was given to 102 adult language students enrolled in English language classes. The results of this experiment were analyzed in the context of applied linguistics theory and current pedagogic practice to determine what, if any, conclusions could be drawn about the second language learner's internalized knowledge of the rules governing English spelling. Strategies for preparing useful teaching materials utilizing the theories of applied linguistics were considered with reference to the spelling abilities of non-native students as determined by their performance on the experimental test.