An Analysis of the Causal Reasoning Deficiencies in English Majors' Argumentative Writing

The Syllabus for English Majors at Universities and Colleges(2000) makes it clear to further strengthen the English majors' critical thinking and logical reasoning ability.But how to effectively incorporate the cultivation of critical thinking skills into English majors' core courses,such as the writing courses,remains one of the most important tasks of teaching reform for English majors.The present study is aimed at having a systematic analysis on the causal reasoning deficiencies in English majors' argumentative writing.Furthermore,the reasons resulting in the causal reasoning deficiencies and the implications for the teaching of second language writing are explored.

英语议论文写作中because因果关系结构中的逻辑推理缺陷分析

本文报告了中国非英语专业大学生在议论文写作中使用because表达广义因果关系结构中存在的逻辑推理缺陷。研究发现,英语议论文中非英语专业大学生在带有because的推理结构中存在相当普遍的逻辑推理问题,超过3/4的写作中because结构存在缺陷;主要缺陷类型包括:1)绝对化分析、解释和论证缺陷;2)简单化分析、解释和论证缺陷;3)不当分析、解释和论证推不出问题;4)语气过于肯定的分析、解释、论证。最后讨论了可能导致逻辑推理缺陷的主要因素和对二语写作教学的启示。