The Effect of Topic-Selection Control on EFL Writing Fluency

Abstract

― ― 15 Abstract Fluency development is an essential component of language learning. The present study focuses on a timed writing activity designed to encourage language learners to produce more fluent and meaningful written texts. It explores the effect of topic-selection control on the writing fluency of 46 learners of English at a Japanese university. Control of topic selection alternated from teacher to learner during four writing sessions. Text analysis of each written production was done to determine a general fluency index, which was then statistically analyzed (t-test). Results indicated that topic-selection control did affect writing fluency, as texts written on self-selected topics displayed a significantly higher level of fluency than those written on assigned topics. This study also examines the effect of the writing activity on learners' self-efficacy and attitude to second language (L2) writing. Pedagogical implications are discussed and suggestions for possible future L2 writing research are made.