Exploring Task-Based Learning of L2 English Formulaic Sequences from an Intra- and Inter-Individual Perspective

Abstract

This study aimed to find out which of the three tasks, summarizing (SUM), discussion (DIS) or retelling (RT), was more effective in teaching L2 English formulaic sequences to a group of Polish teenagers. In so doing, 108 EFL learners were assigned to one of the three groups: SUM (n = 36), DIS (n = 36), and RT (n = 36) and followed a three-week-long task-based intervention which was similar for all the participants apart from the target task. At the inter-individual level, the statistical analysis revealed progress but no significant differences in achievement between the three groups. A further analysis at the intra-individual level, following the principles of Complex Dynamic Systems Theory, revealed that each learner displayed unique progress and regression patterns.

Keywords

• formulaic sequences
• tblt
• task
• complex dynamic systems