Abstract:
This study aims to analyze punctuation errors made by third year students of secondary schools. The context of the problem is to analyze the students' errors in using punctuation marks in text and sentences. Descriptive analytical method was adopted. The instruments for collecting data were test for students of Sudanese secondary schools in third year. The test was administered to (80) students of Sudanese secondary schools, Nyala Locality, Darfur. The study also used an English questionnaire for teachers of English. The questionnaire was given to (40) teachers in order to know their opinions about the errors students commit as they use punctuation marks. The validity and the reliability of the test and the questionnaire being used were measured. Alpha Correlation Coefficient was used for the test reliability 0.92. The test was statistically analyzed using SPSS program and the questionnaire was analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Four hypotheses were formulated and supported by four questions. These hypotheses were positively confirmed. The results of the investigation have revealed the following findings:
1. Lack of punctuation exercises provided by SPINE (6) textbook that students of secondary schools should practise to improve their writing.
2. There is weakness in students' punctuation writing due to lack of punctuation teaching provided by English teachers.
3. Punctuation specific topics will significantly improve students’ performance in writing if are introduced into the English syllabus.
Findings and recommendations which are significance to students, teachers, and syllabus designers were provided. The researcher suggested that other studies could be conducted in the same area.
