Ability in Using Modifier among Junior ABEL Students

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Modifiers are indispensable in the field of writing. However, the rules of using these modifiers are often neglected by writers resulting in grammatical errors and ambiguous contexts being expressed. In line with the said problem, this study aimed to investigate the ability of junior ABEL students in using modifiers. Specifically, this study sought to determine the profile of the students and their ability in using modifiers by correcting erroneous sentences and paragraphs containing dangling and misplaced modifiers in one-word, phrasal, and sentential level.

METHODS

The researchers used descriptive-correlation method and used a questionnaire to elicit data. Frequency, counts, percentage distribution, mean, Contingency coefficient, and Spearman correlation analysis were used for the treatment of the data.

RESULTS

The results showed that the majority were graduates from public school. Most of them selected textbooks as their most preferred reading material; majority used Iloco as their mother tongue; the majority said that their motivation in studying English is to integrate themselves in English speaking communities; most of them obtained grades within the 2.25-2.50 range in Writing in the Discipline, and Structure of the English Language. The 25.6 mean score of the respondents indicated that the respondents' overall level of ability in using modifiers is moderate. Furthermore, it was found out that the respondents' profile has a relationship on their ability in using modifiers.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the findings, it is highly recommended by the researchers for primary English students to exert more effort to improve their level of ability in using modifiers. English instructors should prepare instructional materials mainly designed to enhance the ability of the students in using modifiers; curriculum planners to include more lessons that can help students in improving their knowledge regarding modification errors particularly on dangling modifiers which they are found to have great difficulty.