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Part of
Writing and Language Learning: Advancing research agendas
Edited by Rosa M. Manchón
[Language Learning & Language Teaching 56] 2020
► pp. 231–254

Chapter 10
Processing output during individual L2 writing tasks

An exploration of depth of processing and the effects of proficiency

| Pompeu Fabra University | University of Murcia
| University of Murcia
| University of Murcia

The present study explored the different levels of processing as well as the strategic orientation involved in the language-related episodes identified in the think-aloud protocols produced by 21 EFL writers (divided into three proficiency groups: pre-intermediate, intermediate and advanced) during the individual completion of an argumentative writing task. Results confirmed previous predictions on (i) the manner in which engaging in L2 writing may foster deep levels of language processing, and (ii) the proficiency-dependency of such processing. In particular, advanced learners engaged in deeper levels of processing with an upgrading strategic orientation, which involved complex manipulation and evaluation of L2 forms and structures. These findings are discussed through the lens of the language learning potential of individual L2 writing tasks.

Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Theoretical and empirical background
    • Writing as a site for language learning: The relevance of studying individual writing
    • Writing and language learning opportunities in individual writing conditions: The empirical evidence
    • The role of L2 proficiency in linguistic processing
    • L2 proficiency and depth of processing
    • L2 proficiency and learners’ strategic orientation of problem-solving behaviour
  • The present study
    • Research questions
  • Method
    • Participants
    • Task and data collection procedures
    • Data coding and analysis procedures
      • Identification of LREs
      • Depth of processing
      • Strategic orientation
      • Examples
  • Results
    • Research question 1
    • Research question 2
  • Discussion
  • Conclusions, limitations, and future directions
  • Acknowledgements
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 20 November 2020
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/lllt.56.10lop
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