A case study on the influence of first language syntax (L1) in writing english (L2) essays among form two secondary students

Abstract

English language is one of the most important and second language after Bahasa Melayu, which is also a national language in Malaysia. Writing in English language is one of the most difficult skills for Malaysian students, especially if they do not have a good proficiency in the language. Objective of this study is to identify L2 (English) syntax transferred negatively and positively from L1 (Bahasa Melayu) in writing English (L2) essays among Form Two secondary school students. The design of this study is a qualitative which is appropriate to identify the phenomena. The data collection instruments were document analysis and interview. To execute this study, 20 writing samples were chosen from low proficiency level of students. They were instructed to write about 100 word essays on a given topic in English language. The syntax was later corroborated and compared to substantiate the theoretical arguments in the field of language transfer. From the findings, it was found that first language highly interferes in students' English language writing skills. In addition, it was found that the sample employed a translation method although they understand the significance of English language worldwide. To conclude, more actions should be taken in order to teach contrastive analysis for a better understanding of the differences in the syntax between Bahasa Melayu and English language.