An Analysis of the Spelling Errors In the Written English of Saudi University Students

Abstract

This study investigates the spelling errors that characterize the writing of Saudi university students. The errors are analyzed with a view to finding their causes. The analysis shows that the errors fall into three categories- substitution (letter and word substitution), addition and omission. The authors conclude that the letter substitution error is a characteristic feature of the spelling of the subjects,. The authors also conclude that the subjects' Arabic dialect is responsible for causing such type of substitution. The other types, which occurred less frequently, are attributed to interference from both Arabic and English. The authors finally recommend a kind of instruction focusing on the learners' attested errors considering priorities.