Impromptu speech: EFL learners’ problems in collocation and l1 interference

Abstract

Collocation is considered to be an important element for advanced ESL or EFL learners to lead them on the way toward an accurate and natural production of the second or foreign language. This study focuses on the role of collocation in some aspects. Firstly, it defines collocation in detail to show how different collocation is from the other types of fixed phrases. Secondly, this study discusses how collocation can reduce interference of the learners’ first language during language production of the target language and help them to transfer the intended meaning they have in mind through correct and appropriate chunks of words. Thirdly, the role of collocation in production of a natural an accurate language is highlighted. Finally it will present analysis of a group of the EFL learners’ impromptu speech problems in collocation and the cases of L1 interference.