An error analysis of grade 11 learners' blog entries at Ella du Plessis High School in Windhoek, Namibia
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Date
2025-04-29
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Namibia University of Science and Technology
Abstract
This study investigated the grammatical errors made by Grade 11 learners at Ella du Plessis High School in Windhoek in their blog entries. A qualitative research design was used to identify the learners’ written errors from a sample size of 118 assessment-based blog entries. The study population covered a total population of 178 Grade 11 learners studying English as a Second Language (ESL) and two English teachers. Learners' written tests, interviews, and a content analysis checklist were used to gather data. Grammatical errors such as punctuation errors, subject-verb agreement challenges, tense inconsistencies, sentence fragments, and article misuse, were found to be highly prevalent. These errors were connected to native language interference, limited exposure to actual English usage, and the influence of informal communication patterns. It was discovered that blogging encourages participation, creativity, and peer interaction while offering a forum for real-world language use. However, its effectiveness was impeded by issues like poor grammar education, a lack of technological resources, and a lack of revision chances. According to the study, teaching ESL should incorporate focused grammar training that focuses on topics like article usage, subject-verb agreement, and verb tenses. Peer review sessions and writing workshops are also suggested as ways to strengthen students' abilities through group projects and cooperative learning. Additionally, it is recommended that learners be exposed to more authentic language use, such as blogs, newspapers, and online platforms, in order to contextualise better and apply grammatical principles. Schools should make investments in technology infrastructure and give teachers the training they need to oversee technology-enhanced learning environments in order to maximise blogging as a teaching tool.
Description
THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF ENGLISH AND APPLIED LINGUISTICS
Supervisor: Prof. Haileleul Zeleke Woldemariam
Keywords
Namibia, grammatical errors, Grade 11 learners, blog entries
Citation
Waandja, K. T. (2025). An error analysis of grade 11 learners' blog entries at Ella du Plessis High School in Windhoek, Namibia [Master's thesis, Namibia University of Science and Technology].