Problems posed by using Linking Devices in the Academic Writing of Sudanese University Students

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating problems posed by the use of linking devices in academic writing of Sudanese University students. A descriptive analytical method was adopted in conducting the study. A questionnaire and test were chosen as tools for data collection. The questionnaire was distributed. to 30 experienced teachers at college of languages, Sudan University of science and technology- College of Arts, University of Khartoum and Islamic Omdurman University. A test was given to first year at Sudan University of Science and Technology. The test is diagnostic one which is divided in to four parts namely grammar, word formation, gap filling & matching. The SPSS program (statistical package for social Sciences) was used for data analysis. The statistical analysis for the results of questionnaire showed that all lecturers strongly agreed that EFL students at University commit all kinds of errors in using linking devices in academic writing. All lecturers strongly agreed that most frequent types of errors are due to linking ideas and information across sentences, misuse of ellipses, substitution, spelling word choice and lack of vocabulary. The statistical analysis of the test has revealed same problems revealed by questionnaire. Based on the findings, the study recommended that EFL students should be exposed to language varieties through various literary texts, linking devices should be practiced and if possible to add syllabus on linking devices should be added.