The Influence of First Language on Foreign Language Learning: An Error Analysis of Morphemes

Abstract

Abstract The present paper is an Error analysis aims at to document the errors that appear in a learner language, determine whether those errors are systematic, and (if possible) explain what caused them. The study employed one hour-interview conducted with a student of High Institute of Comparative and Administrative Studies in Cairo. The interview was conducted in a classroom in the main campus building at the American University in Cairo. The study found that most of these errors are products of overuse "overgeneralization" of L2's rules, and NL transfers. Learners need to be encouraged to speak and interact in English at home and with their friends for more progress in fluency. However, focus on rule is also pivotal for adequate balance between fluency and accuracy. Keywords: Error Analysis, English, learner