The use of engagement resources in IGCSE EFL and ESL reading exams: A practical application of appraisal theory

مقال فى مجلة

2024

This paper illustrates the value of Engagement as a subsystem of Martin
and White’s (2005) Appraisal framework in studies on IGCSE English
reading assessments. The study focused on how IGCSE exam authors
engage with their readers and how they construct and negotiate stances using
evaluative language. The study used a mixed-method research design to
examine engagement resources in four IGCSE EFL/ESL reading tests.
Analysis of four IGCSE EFL and ESL reading tests using the Engagement
system revealed that there are some different linguistic preferences among
EFL and ESL exam makers. While both tests had a higher number of
heteroglossic and ‘contractive’ resources, the manner in which these
elements were distributed made a difference in serving each exam’s purpose
and type of evaluation, i.e. the engagement feature was used in EFL texts to
present a more challenging text while ESL texts were considered clearer. A
thorough understanding of the underlying features of engagement can help
learners distinguish creative positioning, assess the impact of linguistic
choices, identify the goal of writing, and comprehend underlying ideologies
and values. The comparison between ESL and EFL texts indicates that closer
attention to authorial presence and to problems of voice negotiation through
the study of engagement resources can help in preparing EFL and ESL
IGCSE exam takers to solve more effectively and can enhance their text
understanding and sharpen their critical reading skills.

• نوع عمل المنشور: Research Article