A comparison of cohesive features in IELTS writing of Chinese candidates and IELTS examiners

摘要

This study aims at investigating cohesive ties applied in IELTS written texts produced by Chinese candidates and IELTS examiners,uncovering the differences in the use of cohesive features between the two groups,and analyzing whether the employment of cohesive ties is a possible problem in the Chinese candidates’ writing.Six written texts are analyzed in the study,with three Chinese candidates’ and three IELTS examiners’ IELTS writing respectively.The findings show that there exist differences in the use of cohesive devices between the two groups.Compared to the IETLS’ examiners’ writing,the group of Chinese candidates employed excessive conjunctions,with relatively less comparative and demonstrative reference ties used in their texts.Additionally,it appears that overusing repetition ties constitutes a potential problem in the candidates’ writing.Implications and suggestions about raising learners’ awareness and helping them to use cohesive devices effectively are discussed.