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Title Acquisition of Morpho-syntactic Features by ESL Learners: A Case Study of Undergraduate Students in KP, Pakista

Author(s) Jasim Khan

Abstract Descriptive writing is a crucial aspect of communication, widely used across various contexts. For second-language learners, acquiring writing skills is a continuous process that requires sustained instruction. However, frequent morphosyntactic errors in ESL learners’ writing present significant challenges. This study examines these errors in the descriptive writing of undergraduate students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The research addresses one question: (1) What are the morph-syntactic errors made by ESL learners at the undergraduate level in Swat? Using a qualitative case study approach, the study focuses on 7th-semester BS English students from public-sector colleges affiliated with the University of Swat. Data were collected through descriptive essays on the topic “A Lesson in Your Urdu or English Course Book Which You Cannot Forget.” These essays were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques within the framework of Processability Theory (Pienemann, 1998), offering a structured approach to understanding morphosyntactic development. Findings revealed that ESL learners’ progress through a predictable developmental stage, yet full mastery of advanced morphosyntactic features remains incomplete. Common errors include omission, addition, overgeneralizations, which highlight persistent challenges. The study emphasizes the interdependence between morphological and syntactic development, advocating for instructional approaches aligned with learners’ developmental stages. Targeted strategies can enhance language acquisition and further research on Processability Theory-based methods is recommended to improve ESL learning outcomes.

Type Thesis/Dissertation

Faculty Languages

Department English

Language English

Publication Date 2025-08-18

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