Japanese Students' Argumentative Writing in English : Characteristic Weaknesses and Developmental Factors

Abstract

This study examined argumentative essays in English written by Japanese university students to specify the particular weaknesses of their argumentation and to suggest what aspects need to be emphasized in the English composition classroom. The students' essays were analyzed in terms of the effect of five argumentative components: (a) claim clarity, (b) reason strength, (c) rebuttal strength, (d) development, and (e) language. The results showed that building sufficient detail of evidence supporting a claim with reasons and then backing up the reasons with warrants - often presented a significant hurdle for the students. The results also indicated that, contrary to previous research into Japanese students' writing, the students had no trouble taking a position initially and developing deductive reasoning. Pedagogical implications are discussed with respect to contrastive rhetoric and educational factors affecting how Japanese students write in English.