The paper discusses the interpretation of adversative clauses introduced by "pero" and concessive clauses introduced by "aunque" in Spanish. Specifically, the discussion centers around structures that exhibit the forms: (i) "A, pero B," (ii) "A, aunque B-INDICATIVE," and (iii) "A, aunque…

This experimental study explores how source use features impact raters' judgment of argumentation in a second language (L2) integrated writing test. One hundred four experienced and novice raters were recruited to complete a rating task that simulated the scoring assignment of a local English Placement Test (EPT). Sixty written responses were…

Focusing efficiently on potential weaknesses in the validity argument of writing assessments--such as writing subjectivity, content coverage, criteria vagueness, and raters' incompetence--has been shown to positively enhance teachers' overall writing assessment competence (AC). In this study, we propose a computational bootstrapping model of…

Argumentation is a complex skill essential for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students to effectively use their English language and reasoning abilities in writing and speaking. Constructing arguments without proper collaborative scaffolding and technological support can be cognitively demanding. Generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) in…

Working with peers in small groups is conducive to learning, and collaborative learning has been widely adopted in second language classrooms. Leadership, defined as the initiative taken to influence others in a group, plays a significant role in successful teamwork, but has not received due attention in research on collaborative peer work. To…

This article addresses the need for increased representation in instructional materials of people with disabilities. It argues not only for materials that show people with disabilities engaging in all facets of daily second language (L2) culture but also for materials that challenge students to reflect on products and practices that continue to…

This study explored the relationship between task complexity, textual emotionality, and linguistic complexity in second language (L2) writing. Fifty-eight L2 English learners performed simple and complex versions of an argumentative writing task manipulated along with resource-­directing variables. The essays were first analysed for textual…

Despite the growing interest in AI for language assessment, there remains a significant research gap regarding its usefulness for assessing less proficient language skills, particularly those of learners of English as a second or foreign language (S/FL). AI models often prioritize proficient writing, neglecting the intricacies of learner language.…

Writing comprehensibly, dynamically, and persuasively in a foreign language is a significant challenge for learners. Written communication assesses language and writing progress for various summative and developmental goals. Scenario-based assessment (SBA), as one of the methodologies of classroom-based assessment (CBA), aims to elicit both…

High school students for whom English is a second language (L2) often struggle with effective text revision because of limited ability to self-regulate their writing, that is, to manage the subprocesses of writing and to use writing-related knowledge and strategies. To help students in China acquire effective text revision skills for English…

Research on the relationship between vocabulary knowledge and reading has largely focused on literal comprehension of informational texts. The present study, however, investigates the vocabulary-reading relationship by specifically examining critical reading skills in an argumentative text.76 EFL university students majoring in Education and…

The main argument of this paper is that the Virtual Linguistic Landscape (VLL) of advertising allows the utilisation of persuasion strategies that transcend the traditional separation of named languages to produce the maximum effect on potential customers. The paper challenges the segregational view of language, which assumes that communication…

This study aims to develop a robust rubric for evaluating artificial intelligence (AI)--assisted essay writing in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts. Employing a modified Delphi technique, we conducted a comprehensive literature review and administered Likert scale questionnaires. This process yielded nine key evaluation criteria,…

This study investigates task-specific emotions, examining how they arise and impact performance in a second language writing task through the lens of control-value theory and a positive psychology (PP) perspective. Participants were 206 secondary English-as-a-foreign-language learners from rural China. They completed an English argumentative…

This study investigates the impact of ChatGPT on EFL students' argumentative writing development of 30 third-year English majors. The research examines writing quality improvements, student perceptions, and patterns of AI tool usage across a 16-week period. This study employed a mixed-methods design to investigate both students' writing…