Grammar Checker Application for Enhancing Error-Free English Writing

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the effects of a grammar checker application on error-free English writing. The subjects were 36 English-major students. Firstly, the subjects were taught how to apply a grammar checker and were explained grammar rules by focusing on those related to the most common errors made by Thai learners including article, capitalization, fragment, parallel structure, preposition, punctuation, run-on sentence, singular/plural, spelling, subject-verb agreement, verb tense, verb form, word form, and word order. After that, the subjects were assigned to complete five writing tasks and use the grammar checker to detect their grammatical errors. Then, they had to record and analyze the errors in order to identify their types and correct them. This will help them increase their grammatical awareness and improve their ability for error-free English writing. The research instrument consisted of Ginger Software (a grammar checker), a Pre-test and Post-test, and an error analysis recording sheet. Mean, standard deviation, and t-test (Dependent Samples) were used to analyze the data collected. It was found that the subjects made less grammatical errors in their English writing after using the grammar checker as well as analyzing and recording their grammatical errors.