Exploring multilingual learners’ writing practices during an L2 and an L3 individual writing task

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Abstract

Second language (L2) writing researchers have demonstrated that bilingual writers draw on their native language to fulfill task requirements. A growing number of individuals are learning a language beyond their second, and, despite an increased interest in third/additional language (L3/Ln) development, few empirical studies have considered writing practices from a plurilingual lens. To fill this gap, nine multilingual writers (Spanish/French/English) completed two individual writing tasks (argumentative essays), one in French and one in English. The stimulated-recall interview data confirms that writing is a plurilingual activity. The participants drew on their cumulative linguistic repertoire to generate ideas, to structure their essays, and to reflect on language; however, for lexical reflections, their additional knowledge, rather than facilitate lexical accuracy, appeared to interfere with their writing experience. The findings, discussed from a plurilingual lens, confirm that individuals have fluid and partial competences of various languages which support them during academic writing tasks. Implications for cross-linguistic pedagogy are discussed. (English)

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

What strategies are effective for English language acquisition in newcomer populations?

This evidence summary, authored by Switchboard, provides an overview of the current evidence on the effectiveness of various interventions for English language learning among newcomers. It addresses two crucial questions: Are there specific elements of English language acquisition programs for newcomer populations that are more effective or efficient than others? What role does technology play…

About this study

AGE: Adults

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Paid

HOST COUNTRY: Canada

HOST COUNTRY INCOME: High

OUTCOME AREA: Education

POPULATION: Other

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Suggestive

TYPE OF STUDY: Suggestive evidence

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2020

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