Vol. 7. No. 2 A-6 September 2003
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L1 to L2 Writing Process and Strategy Transfer: A Look at Lower Proficiency Writers

Mark Wolfersberger
<maw44@email.byu.edu>
Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah USA

Abstract

This article examines the composing process and writing strategies of three lower proficiency Japanese subjects in their L1 and L2. This study found that while some L1 strategies may transfer to the L2 writing processes, lower proficiency writers struggle in utilizing all strategies that could help their writing process in the L2. The results suggest several compensating strategies for dealing with L2 language issues and facilitating L1 composing process transfer. Finally, suggestions for teachers are given so that teachers can help students discover and utilize existing strategies within their L1 and L2 composing processes as well as compensating strategies to improve their L2 writing.

 
Keywords: ESL,EFL,writing,composition,strategy,training, SLA

 

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