ERIC Number: EJ1480910
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Jul
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1345-8353
EISSN: EISSN-2671-938X
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Measuring Syntactic Development in Adolescent EFL Learner Writing
YeonJoo Jung; Yoonkyeong Bae
Journal of Pan-Pacific Association of Applied Linguistics, v29 n1 p37-51 2025
This study investigated the development of syntactic complexity in second language (L2) learner essays, focusing on how key syntactic features evolve as L2 learners practice writing through the use of an automated written corrective feedback (AWCF) tool. Using a corpus of essays written across three writing sessions, five indices of syntactic complexity were analyzed: mean length of T-unit (MLT), mean length of clause (MLC), dependent clauses per clause (DC/C), coordinate phrases per clause (CP/C), and complex nominals per clause (CN/C). Linear mixed-effects models were employed, with Session as a fixed effect and participant as a random effect. Results revealed significant growth in MLT, MLC, and CP/C, indicating learners' increasing use of longer and more coordinated syntactic structures. DC/C showed marginal gains, while CN/C remained unchanged. These findings suggest that while some dimensions of syntactic complexity are responsive to short-term writing practice and corrective feedback, others may require extended instruction and developmental time. The study also discusses the potential role of AWCF, specifically from Grammarly, in facilitating syntactic development. Implications for pedagogy and future research directions are explored.
Descriptors: English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Writing Instruction, Syntax, Writing Improvement, Computer Software, Feedback (Response), Technology Uses in Education, Second Language Instruction, Middle School Students, Foreign Countries
Pan-Pacific Association of Applied Linguistics. Cheongji National University of Education. Main Bldg #506, 2065 Cheongnam-ro, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do 28690, Korea. e-mail: paaljournal@gmail.com; Web site: http://paal.kr/html/sub04_01.asp
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Korea
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A

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