Exploring Gender Influence on Argumentative Essay Structure: A Case Study of IELTS Test Takers in Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33195/Keywords:
Argumentative, Body, Conclusion, IELTS, Introduction, Standard StructureAbstract
This study investigated how gender influenced the alignment of thesis statements with the structure of argumentative essays among IELTS test takers in Pakistan and evaluated gender's impact on organizational structures to identify writing strategy challenges. Additionally, it offered perspectives on the linguistic and cultural context influenced by gender among Pakistani test takers. The study carries significant consequences for the field of education., informing teaching methodologies, enhancing test preparation, and promoting gender-inclusive assessments. Using a mixed-methods approach and textual analysis based on Ken Hyland's Genre-Based Structure model, the findings revealed that 86 out of 100 candidates effectively incorporated hooks into their essays, capturing the reader's attention. Gender-based comparisons indicated that 44 females and 42 males engaged readers effectively, unveiled nuanced differences in their writing strategies. Variations in integrating background information, adhering to the essay structure, and crafting introductory and body paragraphs among male and female candidates are highlighted. Overall, females adhered more closely to the content structure of the essay, comprising 54%, while males constituted 46%. The study emphasizes the need for tailored support mechanisms to address specific challenges faced by both genders in essay writing. This research offers valuable insights into gender-specific writing patterns, forming a basis for refining educational practices and improving IELTS test preparation strategies. Future research could explore underlying factors influencing these patterns, including cultural and educational influences, focusing on developing interventions to enhance writing skills for both genders and fostering more equitable and inclusive educational environments.
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