The purpose of this study was to identify whether there are any differences in the quality of the notes constructed in English between students for whom English is a first language and those for whom it is a second language. Subsequently we assessed whether this difference, if any, affected their grades. Unsurprisingly, the first-language students produced better structured and more detailed notes; they also performed better academically than their second-language peers. However, when students were provided with training that focused on using writing as a means to promote critical thinking, there was an improvement in the personalisation of their notes. The improvement in grades was significant for secondlanguage students. Thus the university has a pivotal role to play in preparing students for academic success by providing them with supportive measures to aid their transition into first year. Significance: • The work illustrates that writing can be used as a tool for students to improve their learning and their academic performance. • Second-language students' grades improve when writing interventions are provided early in the year. • Students need to take on the responsibility for their learning; lecturers also have a responsibility in scaffolding learning.
CITATION STYLE
Dukhan, S., Cameron, A., & Brenner, E. (2016). Impact of mother tongue on construction of notes and first-year academic performance. South African Journal of Science, 112(11–12). https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2016/20160037
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