L1 Interference in Using Coordinating Conjunctions by EFL Learners

Abstract

                This article is an attempt to explore the interference of the mother-tongue in using some grammatical patterns, particularly coordinating conjunctions (and, or, and but). An instrument of a test was performed in collecting the data of this work. The researcher used two tests: one in the form of first language of the informants (L1) and the other in the foreign language (FL). The aim of the two tests is to explore the interference of L1 in using FL. The subjects of the study were selected randomly from a recognised university, where English is used as a foreign language. They are 40 students of fourth level of English Department a last year of obtaining B.A Degree. In the process of data analysis, the most commonly, applicable, and reliable system ( statistical package for social sciences ) is preferred to be used.  The results of the present research paper have revealed that the coordinating conjunctions and has the most common use than other conjunctions. By juxtaposing the results of the two tests (FL-L1 Test and L1-FL Test), the effects of the mother-tongue interference appear clear, the coordinating conjunction but has obtained the least degree of L1 interference, or has got more, while and has attained the highest degree of the mother-tongue interference.