List of Abbreviations
Introduction
Chapter One Literature Review
1.1 Studies on Variability of Language Development in L2 Writing
1.2 Studies on Syntactic Complexity in L2 Writing
1.2.1 Definition of Syntactic Complexity
1.2.2 Dimensions and Measurement of Syntactic Complexity
1.2.3 Studies on Relationship between Syntactic Complexity and Language Proficiency
1.2.4 Studies on Factors Influencing Syntactic Complexity
1.3 Studies on Syntactic Complexity Development in L2 Writing from the Perspective of Dynamic System Theory
Chapter Two Theoretical Basis
2.1 Introduction to Dynamic Systems Theory
2.2 Characteristics of Dynamic Systems
2.2.1 Complete Interconnectedness
2.2.2 Non-linearity in Development
2.2.3 Self-Organizing and Self-adaptation
2.2.4 Phase Transition
2.2.5 Systematic Sensitivity to Initial Conditions
Chapter Three Methodology
3.1 Research Design
3.1.1 Research Questions
3.1.2 Research Subjects
3.1.3 Research Instruments
3.2 Research Procedure
3.2.1 Data Collection
3.2.2 Data Analysis
Chapter Four Results and Discussion
4.1 General Characteristics of Syntactic Complexity Development
4.2 Individual Characteristics of Syntactic Complexity Development
4.2.1 Individual Development in the Trend Lines
4.2.2 The Mean Length of T-unit
4.2.3 Clause per Sentence
4.2.4 Dependent Clauses per Clause
4.2.5 Coordinate Phrase per Clause
4.3 Interplay among the Four Dimensions of Syntactic Complexity for the Four English Postgraduates
4.3.1 General Interplay
4.3.2 Individual Interplay
Conclusion
Major Findings
Pedagogical Implications
Limitations and Suggestions for Further Studies
参考文献
Appendix I Interview
Appendix II Writing Samples
致谢
声明
