Scope of Error Analysis in English written texts of ESL Students- A Case Study

Abstract

Of all the language skills, writing is the most difficult skill for the students who learn English as a second language because they have less experience with written expression. In this research paper, efforts have been made to prove the relevance of error analysis in the English writing skills of the Intermediate Level students. To conduct the research, a random written sample of a Class XII student of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Navsari, Gujarat, has been taken up. Errors in the written text have been categorized using the theory provided by Dulay, Burt, and Krashen (1982, pp.146). The need of this research arose after looking into the writing errors made by the JNV students of Intermediate Level, where English is taught and learned as a Second Language. The intent is to prove how error analysis can help to possibly identify sources of errors in learners’ writing; categorize the errors, and try to present a method for correction and improve the writing skills of the students. This study can be of great help to the English teachers of JNVs that were established in 1986 to bring out the best of Indian rural talent; to improve upon the writing skills of their students.