5. Conclusion
In this paper, it can be seen that errors found in Thai student writing are mainly influenced by both interlingual
and intralingual causes. The theoretical framework of error sources is reviewed. Interlingual errors, lexical errors,
syntactic errors and discourse errors are reviewed in terms of first language interference. As for intralingual
errors, it is also reviewed in terms of language strategy-based errors (James, 1998) consisting of false analogy,
misanalysis, incomplete rule application, exploiting redundancy, overlooking cooccurrence restrictions,
hypercorrection (monitor over use) and overgeneralization, or system-simplification.
It is clearly seen that writing errors are assumed as being not only a result of the first language interference
habits to the learning of L2, but also inadequate acquisition of the target language. From the first source,
interlingual error, it is not regarded as “the persistence of old habits, but rather as signs that the learner is
internalizing and investigating the system of the new language” (Erdogan, 2005: p. 265). This is because writers
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rely on the structures of their own native language and transfer those structures to produce their written language.
Unfortunately, they overlook some restrictions of the language transfer process. Also, as the structures of their
L1 and L2 have significant differences, a high frequency of errors in the target language occur, especially the
errors caused by interference of the native language on the lexis, syntax and discourse.
For the intralingual interference, it is obvious that errors are caused by the influence of the target language than
language transfer. Some specific rules in the target language may be rather confusing and may have some
exceptions in which the writers need to understand, memorize and practice in order to acquire them. It is true in
Thai context that the writer can understand the meaning of the reading passage but fail to grasp the vocabulary
and grammar rule as well as spelling of the target language when writing.
However, these common difficulties in language learning can point out some aspects for language teachers.
Writing errors can reflect strategies that language learners use and indicate the process of acquiring the target
language. Consequently, these would provide language teachers practical aspects in order to develop
methodology as well as materials for remedial teaching.
Acknowledgements
I would like to express my deep appreciation to all reviewers of ELT journal for providing beneficial advice and
comments on my paper and Dr. Banjong Chairinkham and Professor Matthew A. Smith for suggestion and proof
reading.