Investigating writing issues of EFL Learners: Grammar in Context

Volume 3 Issue 2 Monsoon Edition 2023

Abstract

Aim: This paper throws light on the importance of grammar in improving writing skill of EFL learners. Usually, it is observed that grammar is not given much importance in writing. This notion is derived from the assumption that fluency is more important than accuracy. However, this concept is more applicable in improving speaking skill of students. As far as the writing skill is concerned, grammar plays a significant role. If one keeps on avoiding the importance of grammar in writing skill, one would end up in messing up so many items in writing whether syntactic or semantic that writing would serve no purpose. This paper throws light on the importance of grammar in writing skill. It analyses the writing samples of the students of PY at Najran University. From the sample, the researchers diagnosed the issues related to grammar and provide suggestions on how to improve grammar of students which would ultimately lead to better writing practices.

Methodology and Approach: 50 questionnaires (containing 4 statements) were distributed among all students. 30 questionnaires which were given serious attention by the students were finally selected for the study. Out of 50 samples, 30 samples which could be exploited most to the investigation of researchers were taken into consideration. To the surprise of the researchers, most of the students’ writing samples had several severe problems.

Outcome: The analysis of the writing samples shows that students are too weak in grammar. They do not have even the basic knowledge of grammar.

Conclusion and Suggestions: Students have problems even with basic grammar like subject and verb agreement. They do not realize that singular subject requires plural verb and plural subject requires singular verb. Students had problems with the use of articles and propositions too. Students had grave problems with punctuation and spelling also which reveal their inability to do well in the basics of English language. The researcher focused on the weakest students in the class. Teachers should teach grammar and composition as only one integrated course. The same teacher should be responsible for organizing both areas: grammar and composition so that the mistakes found in students´ writing can be used to teach grammar in context.