Investigating Linguistic Features of Cohesion in Korean EFL College Writing

Abstract

Cohesion is an important element in writing as it relates to linking ideas and connecting sentences and passages. Cohesion can influence the overall comprehension of a passage and can guide and assist readers as they encounter more difficult texts. The current study explored the development in the use of cohesive devices in L2 writing, with a particular focus on givenness and connectives, by using the Tool for the Automated Analysis of Cohesion (TAACO) as L2 learners write three response essays in a 16-week semester. Forty-two students, either minoring or majoring in English language and literature who were enrolled in an integrated-skills practical English course, participated in the study. Statistically significant difference were shown in elements of givenness and connectives; however the changes seemed to show fluctuation for givenness and consistent changes in the use of connectives. Based on the findings, implications for teaching L2 writing are discussed.