Systematic Literature Review of Error Analysis in Foreign Language Essay Writing at the Secondary Level

Abstract

The structural disparities between the Malay and foreign languages, along with insufficient proficiency in grammar,
contribute to students’ errors in essay composition. Nevertheless, there has been a limited number of scholarly
endeavours focused on the systematic compilation and comprehensive examination of literature pertaining to this
particular matter. In order to address this research gap, the primary objective of this paper is to undertake a systematic
literature review of existing literature pertaining to the study of errors in foreign language essay writing at the
secondary level. The procedure employed in the composition of this systematic literature review adheres to the PRISMA
(Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines for writing. A total of 6 articles were
selected between 2018 until 2023 through identification, screening and eligibility process. In order to identify articles
and sources for the purpose of this literature review, The study uses three primary databases: Web of Science, Scopus,
and an additional supplementary database known as the Education Resource Information Centre (ERIC). The thematic
analysis undertaken in this SLR has identified two themes. 1) Categories of Errors in Essay Writing and 2) Factors
Contributing to Errors in Essay Writing. A strong command of vocabulary and comprehensive understanding of
grammar are essential to minimizing errors in essay writing. These errors when analyzed can serve as indicator tools
for teachers in assessing the language proficiency levels of their students.