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Grammatical Competence in EFL Learners: A Quantitative Study on the Misuse of 'To Be' at University Level Magvirah Octasary; Nahdawati Nahdawati; Indry Widyasti Anwar
ELS Journal on Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities Vol. 8 No. 3 (2025): SEPTEMBER
Publisher : Hasanuddin University

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.34050/els-jish.v8i3.44320

Abstract

Developing grammatical competence is crucial to mastering the English language because it enables learners to construct precise and meaningful sentences in both written and spoken contexts. The verb to be is one of the most significant grammatical elements since it can serve as a primary verb, an auxiliary verb, or a copula. However, EFL learners frequently struggle to use it appropriately, which frequently leads to errors in sentence construction, tense formation, and subject-verb agreement. Both their general language acquisition development and their academic writing abilities may suffer as a result of these persistent problems. In light of these issues, this study investigates the grammatical competence of university-level EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners, focusing specifically on the misuse of the verb to be. The research employs a quantitative approach involving grammar tests and written analysis from fourth semester of English education students of Sekolah Tinggi Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan Abdul Mujib Laewang Dampal Selatan. Results reveal frequent errors in subject–verb agreement, tense usage, and sentence structure, with misformation and omission being the most common error types. The findings suggest a need for more targeted grammar instruction and continuous practice in academic writing.
Exploring Academic Reading Skills Challenges and Strategies from the Perspective of Indonesian IELTS Test-Takers Indry Widyasti Anwar; Magvirah Octasary; Aulia Dwiyanti
ELS Journal on Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities Vol. 8 No. 4 (2025): DECEMBER
Publisher : Hasanuddin University

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.34050/els-jish.v8i4.46826

Abstract

Academic reading is an essential competency for EFL learners, especially for those preparing for the IELTS examination, although it continues to create significant challenges. This study examines the issues encountered by Indonesian IELTS candidates in the reading section and analyzes the tactics they utilize to overcome these obstacles. A mixed-method approach was employed to collect data via questionnaires and open-ended responses from 24 participants in an IELTS preparation program in Ternate City. Quantitative data were evaluated using SPSS, and qualitative data were thematically interpreted to enhance the findings. Findings indicate that restricted vocabulary, time limitations, and comprehension challenges are the primary barriers faced by examinees. Participants indicated adopting multiple strategies to tackle these challenges, with skimming, scanning, highlighting important information, and employing contextual hints being the most commonly adopted techniques. The results highlight the significance of strategic instruction and vocabulary enhancement in preparing students for IELTS reading assessments. This study indicates that focused instruction and regular practice can improve learners' reading efficiency and performance in high-stakes language assessments.
Reading Comprehension Challenges and Their Contributing Factors Among EFL Students at SMPN 2 Kota Ternate Novita Duyung; Indry Widyasti Anwar; Magvirah Octasary; Firmansyah Firmansyah
Cakrawala Bahasa Vol 15 No 1 (2026): Edisi Mei 2026
Publisher : FKIP Universitas Khairun

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33387/j.cakra.v15i1.12053

Abstract

Reading comprehension remains one of the most challenging skills for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, particularly at the junior high school level. This study aimed to identify the reading comprehension challenges faced by ninth-grade students at SMPN 2 Kota Ternate and to investigate the factors contributing to those challenges. The study employed a descriptive research design involving 34 students of class IX-1. Data were collected through a reading comprehension test consisting of five reading aspects, namely identifying main ideas, identifying references, making inferences, finding detailed information, and interpreting vocabulary. A questionnaire was also administered to identify linguistic and non-linguistic factors affecting students’ reading comprehension. The findings revealed that the students experienced substantial difficulties in reading comprehension, with an average score of 39.85, categorized as very poor. Among the five aspects assessed, vocabulary was identified as the most difficult aspect, followed by references and main ideas. The questionnaire results indicated that limited vocabulary mastery, insufficient grammar knowledge, lack of effective reading strategies, low motivation, limited background knowledge, and poor reading habits contributed to students’ difficulties. These findings suggest that reading instruction should focus not only on improving linguistic competence but also on developing reading strategies and motivation. More contextualized and interactive reading activities are recommended to support students’ reading comprehension development.
Code Switching Used by Indonesian K-Pop Fans on Twitter Rifdayanti; Samsudin Hi Adam; Indry Widyasti Anwar
Cakrawala Bahasa Vol 15 No 1 (2026): Edisi Mei 2026
Publisher : FKIP Universitas Khairun

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33387/j.cakra.v15i1.12055

Abstract

This research aims to identify the types and functions of code switching used by Indonesian K-pop fans on Twitter. A qualitative descriptive method with a content analysis approach was employed in this study. A total of 40 tweets were collected through documentation from active Indonesian K-pop fan accounts that exhibit code switching. The analysis is based on Poplack’s (1980) classification of code switching types and Hoffman's (1991) framework for its functions. The findings show that Indonesian K-pop fans use three types of code switching: intra-sentential switching (19 cases), inter-sentential switching (18 cases), and tag switching (3 cases), with intra-sentential switching being the most dominant. Regarding the functions, the results reveal that code switching is used for talking about a particular topic (8 cases), being empathetic about something (expressing solidarity) (13 cases), quoting somebody else (1 case), intention of clarifying the speech content for the interlocutor (3 cases), interjection (inserting sentence fillers of connectors (3 cases), and expressing group identity (12 cases). The most dominant function is being empathetic about something (expressing solidarity).