Spelling Difficulties among EFL Students: An Error Analysis Framework Using Computer Software- the Spelling Sensitivity Score (SSS)

Abstract

This study explores the prevalent spelling errors among Saudi students of English, by investigating two proficiency levels of English employing the Spelling Sensitivity Score (SSS) software for nuanced analysis. The software in question dissects words into elements, assigning scores to elements and words, offering a detailed perspective on spelling errors. The results show that lower-level English learners exhibit significantly higher percentages of incorrect words and lower percentages of correct words than their high-level counterparts. The analysis also indicates that low-level learners struggle with identifying phonemic elements, often omitting or misrepresenting them. In conclusion, this research underscores that low-level English learners grapple with more spelling errors and inferior performance compared to high-level peers, across all examined categories. The insights gained provide a foundation for tailored teaching strategies, addressing the unique needs of EFL Arabic learners at varying proficiency levels and potentially informing the development of targeted intervention programs.