Voices of English Language Education Society
Vol 7 No 2 (2023): VELES (Voices of English Language Education Society)

Derivational Morpheme Errors in English: A Study of Libyan Students at Al-Mergib University

Firas Fouzi Ibsheeyah (University Al-Mergib)
Senowarsito Senowarsito (Universitas PGRI Semarang)
Siti Nur’Aini (Universitas PGRI Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Oct 2023

Abstract

Proficiency in a language entail mastering components such as lexical nuances and grammatical rules. However, morphology often gets overlooked in university programs, underscoring the need for students to heighten their morphological awareness to refine their English writing. This research delves into the errors in using derivational morphemes by third- and fourth-year English major students from Libya. The objective is to identify, categorize, and understand the root causes of these errors. The study, involving ten participants from Al-Mergib University, used a qualitative research approach with essay writing as the primary data collection tool. The analysis uncovers various errors in derivational morpheme usage. Specifically, the study recorded 36 omission errors, 16 order errors, 6 incorrect formations, and 3 other errors. A striking observation was that errors predominantly centered on suffixes over prefixes. The most frequent mistakes arose in the transformation of adjectives to adverbs and verbs to nouns, encompassing omissions, additions, misordering, and misformations. For educators, this study underscores the importance of understanding student challenges with derivational morphemes, especially related to verbs and nouns. It advocates for a pedagogical approach that includes group discussions analyzing relevant texts. By highlighting these errors, the study offers valuable insights into areas where Libyan students require focused attention in English morphology.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

veles

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

The journal of Voices of English Language Education Society(VELES) e-ISSN 2579-7484 aims to provide an international forum for sharing, dissemination and discussion of research, experience and perspectives across a wide range of education, teaching, development, instruction, educational projects and ...