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The Influence of Netspeak on Students' Writing Shalini Raj Thangaraj; Mahendran Maniam
Journal of Education and Learning (EduLearn) Vol 9, No 1: February 2015
Publisher : Intelektual Pustaka Media Utama

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (93.391 KB) | DOI: 10.11591/edulearn.v9i1.963

Abstract

This study on Netspeak writes about words or phrases that are abbreviated and used frequently by Internet users. Language incorporates explosive items which need special care when handling the components in it. Wide knowledge regarding the various aspect of language will help readers to be able to handle the substance. Therefore, the author calls for a deeper comprehension of certain linguistic realities. This study helps to enlighten the various types of language used while using different mode of communication, thus avoiding harsh judgments regarding the informal use of language. The study also hopes to show that there is nothing linguistically eccentric about using Netspeak while communicating online. They are regarded a negative influence only if they are used in a formal environment. This study deals with the notion that Netspeak is a common language used especially by the younger generation to communicate with one another while online. Although, most educators have regarded the influence of Netspeak as negative and detrimental towards students’ writing, however, Netspeak is still prevalent. This study also gives the statement of problem, its objectives, significance and limitations. It is hoped that the people in the society, especially educators will not view Netspeak as only a cause of the decline of students’ writing standard, but a fixture in language, which is acknowledged for its passing style and momentary trend.
A CASE STUDY OF SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING USING MOVIE TO PROMOTE ORAL COMMUNICATION Mohammad Amro Mohammad Suleiman; Mahendran Maniam
Journal of English Teaching, Applied Linguistics and Literatures (JETALL) Vol 2, No 1 (2019): JETALL Volume 2 Number 1 2019
Publisher : Universitas Lambung Mangkurat

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (284.133 KB) | DOI: 10.20527/jetall.v2i1.7372

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to help EFL students’ improve their oral communication proficiency out-of-class. To achieve that, video-movie was chosen as a medium for improving the subjects' oral communication proficiency. It was hoped that movie could function as a pseudo-immersion for the students, an accessible and easy alternative to being in the English native countries. Based on that, this study aim has been transformed into this research question ‘what effect does self-directed learning using movies has on the students' perceived oral communication proficiency?’. To answer that, six first year students at the faculty of English language and literature, Ajloun University in Jordan, were selected based on purposive sampling and divided equally into two groups, treatment and control, based on random assignment. The subjects in both groups were asked to take the self-assessment language test twice, once before the beginning of the case study scheme and another after. Likewise, to be interviewed twice, and to fill in the study notes during the case study scheme. Only the treatment group were given eight movies with its guides and asked to self-study with it over eight weeks. The results from the case study indicated that movie could help improve the students' oral communication proficiency with higher post-test scores than pre-test scores. Methodological triangulation from both the interviews and study notes also supports the assertion that movie improved the subjects’ oral communication proficiency. The subjects in the treatment group revealed in the post-interview that movies helped improve their listening skills and two subjects suggested that it could possibly have helped improve their speaking skills as well. Their perception in their study notes also supports the results. In conclusion, it is very likely that self-directed learning using movies has improved the students’ oral communication proficiency. This study has implications for practical applications in language teaching and learning which suggests that movie can be effective out of class. In addition, the results suggest that further larger scale investigations into students' language improvement out of class will be worth carrying out.
Inversion and word order in English: A functional perspective Aladdin Assaiqeli; Mahendran Maniam; Mohammed Farrah
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 8, No 2 (2021)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (578.311 KB) | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v8i2.20217

Abstract

English is an SVO (Subject, Verb, Object) word order language. This canonical SVO pattern is the default unmarked word-order configuration typical of English, which makes this language to be classified under the typology of SVO languages. However, driven by the major purpose of language as an instrument of human communication and social interaction, and as a semantic system for making meanings, addressors sometimes depart in their discourse from this basic canonical order of constituents where a grammaticalized system like inversion takes place, resulting in inverted constructions. Through testing and developing the Degree of Focus Hypothesis, proposed by Huffman (1993), this study, which employed a mixed methods research design, sought to explore the communicative and semantic values of inversion; and the pragmalinguistc functions of preposing, i.e., clause-initial adjuncts, to the pragmatic process of communication. The study confirmed the Degree of Focus Hypothesis where the hypothesized notion of concentration of attention stemming from inversion was found to be applicable. The paper stressed that what triggers inversion or non-inversion is a certain communicative effect such as focus rather than a relation of formal determination where one element determines mechanically the form or appearance of another. A contribution to linguistic and educational research, the paper, therefore, highlighted the importance of a human factor in the functioning of language and emphasized the need to break away from grammar-based teaching (traditional grammar) to discourse-based language teaching (communicative grammar) where languaging rather than language should be the focus of language teaching and learning. 
Measuring Malaysian lower secondary learners' reading ability on a CEFR-aligned text Revathi Gopal; Mahendran Maniam; Kesavan Nallaluthan
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 10, No 2 (2023)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v10i2.28013

Abstract

To capture learners’ interest in reading and help them understand the content of their reading, it is important to write at a level that aligns with their reading abilities. This will motivate learners to read and comprehend the material. A CEFR-aligned textbook is a valuable tool for improving the English language skills of lower secondary learners in English Language classrooms. Therefore, it is significant to assess learners’ reading competence in text comprehension using a reading text from a CEFR-aligned textbook. These assessments were conducted based on a narrative text from the CEFR-aligned textbook using two different techniques: miscue analysis and retelling. The sample comprised 20 ‘C’ grade learners randomly selected from Malaysian lower secondary schools. The data on miscues were analysed quantitatively, following Goodman, Watson, and Burke’s In-Depth Procedure (2005). The quality of retelling was evaluated based on the criteria set by Irwin and Mitchell’s (1983) 5-point scoring method. The findings revealed that all 20 learners achieved the target descriptor scale B1, indicating that they can read simple texts on topics relevant to their field and interests with sufficient comprehension. This study implies that CEFR-aligned reading texts are appropriate for lower secondary learners to read and understand. Furthermore, miscue analysis and retelling can effectively monitor learners’ reading comprehension levels and help enhance reading skills among low intermediate-level learners. Based on learners’ reading habits that require assistance, teachers can plan upcoming reading lessons.
Inversion and word order in English: A functional perspective Aladdin Assaiqeli; Mahendran Maniam; Mohammed Farrah
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 8, No 2 (2021)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v8i2.20217

Abstract

English is an SVO (Subject, Verb, Object) word order language. This canonical SVO pattern is the default unmarked word-order configuration typical of English, which makes this language to be classified under the typology of SVO languages. However, driven by the major purpose of language as an instrument of human communication and social interaction, and as a semantic system for making meanings, addressors sometimes depart in their discourse from this basic canonical order of constituents where a grammaticalized system like inversion takes place, resulting in inverted constructions. Through testing and developing the Degree of Focus Hypothesis, proposed by Huffman (1993), this study, which employed a mixed methods research design, sought to explore the communicative and semantic values of inversion; and the pragmalinguistc functions of preposing, i.e., clause-initial adjuncts, to the pragmatic process of communication. The study confirmed the Degree of Focus Hypothesis where the hypothesized notion of concentration of attention stemming from inversion was found to be applicable. The paper stressed that what triggers inversion or non-inversion is a certain communicative effect such as focus rather than a relation of formal determination where one element determines mechanically the form or appearance of another. A contribution to linguistic and educational research, the paper, therefore, highlighted the importance of a human factor in the functioning of language and emphasized the need to break away from grammar-based teaching (traditional grammar) to discourse-based language teaching (communicative grammar) where languaging rather than language should be the focus of language teaching and learning.