Dynamic development of cohesive devices in English as a second language writing

Abstract The dearth of research examining the progression of cohesion in L2 writing through a time-series research design is evident. Therefore, the current study employs the Complex Dynamic Systems Theory to explore the evolution of cohesive devices in L2 writing. Thirty advanced-level L2 writers from a US university participated over a semester, providing 210 written samples at seven measurement points. Analysis of these samples, utilizing 40 cohesion indices from the Tool for the Automatic Analysis of Cohesion, revealed significant improvement in eight cohesion indices (three local, four global, and one text cohesion indices) with large effect sizes. However, time-series analyses indicated nonlinear trends and variability. Additionally, a positive association was found between two local cohesion indices (lexical and semantic overlap) at the initial and final measurement points. The findings demonstrate the multifaceted developmental trajectories and complexities evident in L2 learners’ approaches and carry important implications for L2 writing instruction and assessment.