On the Differentation of Texts by L1 and L2 Learners

Abstract

Based on data of 90 pieces of writings from two corpora WECCL and LOCNESS, the paper makes a study of the differentiation of texts by L1 and L2 learners in respect of lexical complexity. The tools used to process the data include AntConc, SPSS 19, the Web-based Lexical complexity analyzer - Single Mode etc. The findings of the research are as follows: first, there are significant underuses of modifiers and adverbs in L2 learners’ writings; second, there are more sophisticated words such as verbs, nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and modifiers in the L1 learners’ writings than in the L2 learners’ writings. Finally, some pedagogical suggestions are raised to enhance the L2 writing instruction. For instance, first, the L2 instructors should arouse the learners’ attention to the differences between the learners’ mother language and L2, to eradicate with efforts the negative transfer of the mother language of the L2 learner; second, the instructors should implant in the students more knowledge on English stylistics, by making clear difference between oral style and written style; third, the instructors should compile more updated English text books with authentic English material from online English corpora.