PAPER

SYNTACTIC ARGUMENTATION

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of The Requirements for The Morphosyntax

Course as One of The Stages in Obtaining A Master's Degree in Postgraduate
English Education at IAIN Parepare

By:
GROUP 2& 3
Nurhidayanti Badru
2320203879102009
Fika Nurul Fadillah
2320203879102005
Mia Audina
2320203879102004
Muh. Yukir
2320203879102018

PASCASARJANA PROGRAM STUDI TADRIS BAHASA INGGRIS

INSTITUT AGAMA ISLAM NEGERI PAREPARE

2024
 PREFACE
Alhamdulillah, all praises to Allah SWT, the Lord of the world. Thanks for all
His blessing and everything given to writers in completing this paper. Every step is
becoming easy due to His help and blessings. Peace be upon prophet Muhammad
SAW who has guided us from the darkness to the lightness in today's life.

This paper discusses Syntactic Argumentation for completing the assignment

in the Morphosyntax course. The purpose of writing this paper is to know about
Direct Method.

The writers would like to thank to the beloved lecturer, Dr. H. Ambo
Dalle,S.Ag.,M.Pd. who has guided the writers in the completion of this paper. We
also thank to those who have helped the writers in completing this paper. The
writers hope that this paper can add insight to readers, especially regarding the types
of learning styles and how to identify them.
We also realize that this research paper is still far from being perfect. Therefore,
the writers will accept constructive criticism and suggestions for the perfection of
this paper.

Pare-Pare, 06th April 2024

Writers

ii
 TABLE OF CONTEN

COVER………………………………………………….…………………….…i
PREFACE…………………..…………………………….…………………..…ii

TABLE OF CONTENT………………………………….……………………..iii

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION……………………………………………….1

A. Bacground of The Paper………………………………………...………..1

B. Problems Statement………………………………………………...…….1
C. Purpose of The Paper………………………………………………,,,.…..2

CHAPTER II CONTENT……………………………………………………...3

A. Syntactic Structure Affect The Strength Of Arguments In Academic Texts

………………………………………………………….……….………..4
B. The Application Of Syntactic Argumentation Analysis Improve Students'
Writing Skills In An Educational Context……………………….………6
C. The Role Of Natural Language Processing Software In Identifying And
Correcting Syntactic Errors In Text……………………..…….………...9
D. Effective A Syntax-Based Learning Approach In Improving Argument
Writing Skills Among Students……...……………...…………………..11
CHAPTER III CLOSING…………………………………………………….17

A. Conclution……………………………………………………….……...14
B. Implications……………………………………………………….…….14

REFERENCES………………………………………………………………...15

iii
 CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

A. Background of The Paper

Syntactic argumentation is an approach to language analysis that focuses on
the structure and relationships between elements in sentences to identify and
evaluate arguments. In linguistics, syntax is the study of the rules and principles
that govern sentence structure. Through syntactic analysis, we can understand how
words and phrases are arranged to form coherent meaning and how arguments are
built and supported in a text.
The importance of syntactic argumentation lies in its ability to provide deeper
insight into how language and communication work. In academic and professional
contexts, understanding the syntactic structure of arguments can aid in clearer and
more persuasive writing. In addition, in text analysis, syntactic argumentation can
help identify logical errors, grammatical errors, and weaknesses in the construction
of arguments. A leading linguist, Noam Chomsky, emphasized that syntactic
analysis provides a basis for understanding the fundamental structure of the
language we use every day1.

Research in the field of syntactic argumentation also has broad practical

implications, such as in language teaching, learning aid development, and natural
language processing (NLP). With the development of technology and the need for
increasingly complex text data analysis, a deep understanding of syntactic
argumentation becomes increasingly relevant. This can be seen from the increasing
use of syntactic analysis techniques in NLP applications, such as machine
understanding and automatic translation, which help computers to understand and
reproduce human language more accurately2.

In education, teaching syntactic structures to students can improve their ability

to write and speak more effectively. Through a good understanding of syntax,
students can learn to construct more complex and varied sentences, which in turn
can enrich their ability to argue. For example, teaching good sentence structure can
help students avoid common mistakes, such as excessive use of words or confusing
sentence structures, so that their writing becomes clearer and easier to understand3.

In a professional context, the ability to understand and analyze syntactic

structures can improve communication skills. For example, in the legal field, a

1
Chomsky, N. (1965). Aspects of the Theory of Syntax. MIT Press.
2
Jurafsky, D., & Martin, J. H. (2020). Speech and Language Processing. Pearson.
3
Crystal, D. (2004). Rediscover Grammar. Longman.

1
 deep understanding of sentence structure can help in drafting clear and precise legal
documents, which is essential for avoiding ambiguity and misunderstanding. A
lawyer who understands how to structure arguments syntactically will be better
able to convince judges and juries about the validity of the cases they bring4.
In addition, in the field of journalism, the ability to identify and analyze
syntactic structures can help journalists in compiling clear and informative reports.
Journalists who are skilled at constructing coherent and logical sentences and
paragraphs will be better able to convey complex information to readers in a way
that is easy to understand. This is very important in the current information era,
where speed and clarity in delivering news are very crucial5.
In the field of information technology, especially in the development of
software for text analysis, syntactic argumentation plays an important role.
Algorithms designed to analyze text require a good understanding of syntactic
structure to accurately identify the meaning of the text. This technology is used in
a variety of applications, from information retrieval to recommendation systems,
all of which rely on the ability to understand and process natural language6.
Linguists such as Stephen Pinker have shown that syntax not only helps in
understanding the structure of language but also in understanding how the human
mind works. According to Pinker, syntax is key to understanding how we process
and organize information, which is an important aspect of human cognition. Thus,
the study of syntactic argumentation can also provide insight into how the human
brain processes language and thinks logically7.

Finally, syntactic argumentation has applications in the development of

learning aids. Software designed to assist students in language learning often uses
syntactic analysis to provide more accurate and specific feedback. For example,
language learning applications that can identify syntax errors and provide
suggestions for improvement can help students learn more effectively and
efficiently. Thus, research and development in this field continues to grow along
with the increasing need for more sophisticated and effective learning aids8.
B. Problems Statement
Based on the background explanation above, the following are several
problem statements found by the author, including the following:

4
Mellinkoff, D. (1963). The Language of the Law. Little, Brown and Company.
5
Bell, A. (1991). The Language of News Media. Blackwell.
6
Manning, C. D., & Schütze, H. (1999). Foundations of Statistical Natural Language Processing.
MIT Press.
7
Pinker, S. (1994). The Language Instinct. William Morrow and Company.
8
Heift, T., & Schulze, M. (2007). Errors and Intelligence in Computer-Assisted Language Learning:
Parsers and Pedagogues. Routledge.

2
 1. How does syntactic structure affect the strength of arguments in academic
texts?
2. How can the application of syntactic argumentation analysis improve
students' writing skills in an educational context?
3. What is the role of natural language processing software in identifying and
correcting syntactic errors in text?
4. How effective is a syntax-based learning approach in improving argument
writing skills among students?
C. Purpose Of The Paper
Based on the problems statement above, the following is the porpose of the
paper, including the following:
1. To find out how syntactic structure affects the strength of arguments in
academic texts?
2. To understand how the application of syntactic argumentation analysis can
improve students' writing skills in an educational context?
3. To find out what role natural language processing software plays in
identifying and correcting syntactic errors in text?
4. To find out how effective a syntax-based learning approach is in
improving argument writing skills among students?

3
 CHAPTER II
CONTENT

A. Syntactic Structure Affect The Strength Of Arguments In Academic Texts

1. Introduction to Syntactic Structure
Syntactic structure refers to the way words and phrases are arranged to form
good sentences in a language. In academic writing, this structure plays an
important role in conveying complex ideas clearly and effectively. Well-
structured sentences can improve the readability and comprehension of an
argument, making it more persuasive. According to Chomsky (1957), the
syntactic rules of a language determine the way words are combined to form
sentences, which ultimately affects the clarity and impact of the text 9.
Academic writers must understand and master syntactic structure to present
their arguments more logically and coherently10. This ability allows writers to
convey complex ideas without losing the reader throughout long, technical
texts11.

Furthermore, a deep understanding of syntactic structure allows writers to

manipulate language to achieve certain rhetorical effects. For example, placing
keywords at the beginning of a sentence can provide strong emphasis on the
main point of an argument 12. This is in line with research findings which show
that sentence structure can influence the interpretation and reception of
messages by readers13. A clear and organized structure helps readers follow it
better, which in turn strengthens the arguments presented14. Therefore, mastery
of syntactic structure is not only important for clarity but also for the
effectiveness of academic communication.
However, understanding syntactic structure alone is not enough; Writers
also need to apply it consistently in their writing. Proper application of these
syntactic principles allows arguments to develop naturally and logically 15. In
academic contexts, where precision and accuracy are highly valued, the ability
to organize and structure sentences in a logical and cohesive manner is an

9
Chomsky, N. (1957). Syntactic Structures. The Hague: Mouton.
10
Oshima, A., & Hogue, A. (1999). Writing Academic English. Addison Wesley Longman.
11
Swales, J. M., & Feak, C. B. (2004). Academic Writing for Graduate Students: Essential Tasks
and Skills. University of Michigan Press.
12
Biber, D., Johansson, S., Leech, G., Conrad, S., & Finegan, E. (1999). Longman Grammar of
Spoken and Written English. Longman.
13
Crystal, D. (2003). The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language. Cambridge University
Press.
14
Radford, A. (2004). English Syntax: An Introduction. Cambridge University Press.
15
Swales, J. M. (1990). Genre Analysis: English in Academic and Research Settings. Cambridge
University Press.

4
 indispensable skill16. This includes the ability to use subordinate clauses,
explanatory phrases, and other syntactic elements to enrich the text without
sacrificing clarity17.
In addition, academic writing often requires the presentation of complex
data and facts. A good syntactic structure helps in integrating this information
in a way that is easy for the reader to follow18. For example, the use of complex
sentences with good structure can help explain cause-and-effect relationships
or provide examples that support the main argument19. Thus, syntax is not only
a tool for constructing sentences, but also a strategy for building strong and
persuasive arguments in academic writing 20.
2. Impact on Argument Strength

The strength of arguments in academic texts is greatly influenced by their

syntactic structure. Complex syntactic constructions, such as subordinate
clauses and passive sentences, can add depth and nuance to an argument but
can also reduce clarity if used excessively21. On the other hand, a simpler
syntactic structure can make an argument more direct and easy to follow,
thereby increasing its persuasive power22. The study by Biber et al. (1999)
suggest that academic writing benefits from a balance between complexity and
simplicity, ensuring that arguments are sophisticated and accessible 23. Effective
use of syntactic structures strengthens arguments by making them more
coherent and convincing24.
For example, complex sentences can help convey multi-layered ideas and
nuances in arguments, which is especially important in academic writing that
requires in-depth analysis25. However, using too many complex sentences can
make the text difficult to follow and reduce readability 26. Therefore, writers

16
Halliday, M. A. K. (2004). An Introduction to Functional Grammar. Hodder Education.
17
Hyland, K. (2000). Disciplinary Discourses: Social Interactions in Academic Writing. Longman.
18
Graff, G., & Birkenstein, C. (2010). They Say/I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing.
W. W. Norton & Company.
19
Schiffrin, D., Tannen, D., & Hamilton, H. E. (2003). The Handbook of Discourse Analysis.
Blackwell Publishing.
20
Paltridge, B., & Starfield, S. (2007). Thesis and Dissertation Writing in a Second Language: A
Handbook for Supervisors. Routledge.
21
Biber, D., & Gray, B. (2016). Grammatical Complexity in Academic English: Linguistic Change in
Writing. Cambridge University Press.
22
Widdowson, H. G. (2007). Discourse Analysis. Oxford University Press.
23
Hyland, K. (2002). Teaching and Researching Writing. Pearson Education.
24
Johns, A. M. (1997). Text, Role, and Context: Developing Academic Literacies. Cambridge
University Press.
25
Hyland, K. (2013). Writing in the University: Education, Knowledge, and Reputation. Routledge.
26
Williams, J. M. (2007). Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace. Longman.

5
 must be wise in choosing when and how to use complex sentence structures 27.
According to Swales (1990), a combination of complex and simple sentences
can help create a more natural and enjoyable rhythm for readers 28.
On the other hand, the use of simpler syntactic structures can help convey
the main points more clearly and effectively 29. Simple sentences can provide
the necessary pause for readers to digest the information before moving on to
more complex arguments30. The use of this simple sentence is very effective in
the introduction and conclusion, where the writer needs to convey the main
points clearly and concisely. A clear and direct sentence structure can
strengthen an argument by minimizing confusion and ensuring that the reader
understands the main message the author wants to convey.

Finally, it is important to remember that effective syntactic structure is not

only about choosing between simple and complex sentences but also about how
these elements are arranged to support the overall argument31. For example, the
use of syntactic variations can add dynamics to the text and keep the reader's
attention32. Varied syntactic structures also allow writers to emphasize
important points more effectively, creating more lively and interesting texts.
Thus, mastering and applying appropriate syntactic structures is the key to
increasing the strength of arguments in academic writing.

B. The Application Of Syntactic Argumentation Analysis Improve Students'

Writing Skills In An Educational Context
1. Overview of Syntactic Argumentation Analysis

Syntactic argumentation analysis involves examining sentence structure to

understand how they contribute to the overall argument. This method is
important because by understanding sentence structure, we can identify
strengths and weaknesses in writing. In an educational context, this really helps
students to improve their argumentation skills. With careful analysis, students
can learn to recognize effective syntactic patterns and avoid common mistakes
that can weaken their arguments.

27
Fowler, H. W. (2010). Fowler's Dictionary of Modern English Usage. Oxford University Press.
28
Quirk, R., Greenbaum, S., Leech, G., & Svartvik, J. (1985). A Comprehensive Grammar of the
English Language. Longman.
29
Gopen, G. D., & Swan, J. A. (1990). The Science of Scientific Writing. American Scientist.
30
Lunsford, A. A., & Connors, R. J. (1995). The St. Martin's Handbook. St. Martin's Press.
31
Bazerman, C. (1988). Shaping Written Knowledge: The Genre and Activity of the Experimental
Article in Science. University of Wisconsin Press.
32
Flower, L., & Hayes, J. R. (1981). A Cognitive Process Theory of Writing. College Composition
and Communication.

6
 Research conducted by experts such as Toulmin (2003) shows how
important structure is in argumentation. Toulmin emphasizes that clear and
logical syntax is the foundation of effective communication33. Without a good
structure, arguments can become messy and difficult to understand. Therefore,
understanding and applying correct syntactic principles is crucial in building a
convincing argument.
By analyzing syntactic patterns, students can learn how to construct more
persuasive and well-organized arguments. For example, they can understand
how to use complex sentences to connect ideas in more depth, or how to use
simple sentences to make main points clearer. This analysis also helps students
recognize how transitions between sentences and paragraphs can affect the
flow of an argument, so they can improve the cohesion and coherence of their
writing.
Overall, syntactic argumentation analysis is a very useful tool in education.
This not only helps students in improving their writing skills, but also in
developing critical thinking. By understanding sentence structure and how
sentences form arguments, students can become better writers and more critical
readers. They will be better equipped to evaluate other people's arguments and
structure their own arguments in a more effective and persuasive way.

2. Practical Implementation in Classroom Settings

Implementing syntactic argumentation analysis in the classroom involves
integrating exercises that focus on sentence structure and argument
development. This process aims to improve students' abilities in writing
coherent and persuasive texts. One method that can be used is sentence
diagramming, where students map out sentence structures to understand the
relationship between various sentence components. This way, students can
recognize and correct any syntactic errors they make. Additionally, peer review
sessions are also very effective, as they provide an opportunity for students to
get constructive feedback from their peers, which in turn helps them improve
their writing.
According to Ferris (2002), the practical application of syntactic analysis in
teaching writing significantly improves students' ability to produce coherent
and persuasive texts34. In his research, Ferris emphasizes that exercises
involving sentence structure analysis can help students see the importance of

33
Toulmin, S. (2003). The Uses of Argument. Cambridge University Press.
34
Ferris, D. R. (2002). Treatment of Error in Second Language Student Writing. Ann Arbor:
University of Michigan Press.

7
syntax in conveying arguments effectively. For example, by understanding how
the placement of subjects, predicates, and objects can affect the clarity of an
argument, students can avoid ambiguity and increase the persuasiveness of
their writing.
Classroom activities that emphasize the role of syntax in argumentation can
also develop better writing habits and critical thinking skills. When students
engage in syntactic analysis, they learn to be more precise in constructing
sentences and paragraphs. They are also invited to think more deeply about
how each part of their writing contributes to the overall argument. This not only
improves the quality of their writing, but also their ability to think logically and
analytically.

Additionally, the use of syntactic argumentation analysis in the classroom

can increase students' metacognitive awareness of their own writing processes.
By reflecting on sentence structure and how arguments are constructed,
students become more aware of the linguistic choices they make and their
impact on communication effectiveness. This approach teaches them to see
writing not just as a task, but as a dynamic process that requires constant
planning, revision, and refinement. Ultimately, this will prepare them to
become more competent and confident writers in the future.

3. Impact on Student Writing Skills

Syntactic argumentation analysis is a very effective method in improving
students' writing skills. By using this approach, students are invited to
understand sentence construction in more depth, which in turn helps them build
stronger and more effective arguments. In this process, students learn how
sentence elements such as subject, predicate, object, and complement interact
with each other to form a clear and convincing meaning. This is very important
in writing, because well-structured sentences can make arguments easier to
understand and more persuasive for readers.

Research conducted by Graham and Perin in 2007 showed that students who
received instruction in syntactic analysis showed significant improvements in
the clarity and persuasiveness of their writing35. Clarity in writing is a very
important aspect, because clear writing allows readers to follow the author's
train of thought without confusion. By understanding how sentences are
formed, students can avoid common mistakes such as broken sentences or

8
 inappropriate use of punctuation, which can obscure the message they want to
convey.

Apart from that, the ability to compose better arguments is also one of the
main benefits of applying syntactic argumentation analysis. In writing, strong
arguments are usually supported by relevant evidence and presented in logical
and coherent sentences. By mastering sentence structure, students can organize
their ideas better, making each point they make more impactful and convincing.
This is not only true in academic contexts, but also in everyday life situations
where the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is highly valued.
Improving writing skills also has an impact on students' self-confidence.
When students feel that they can write well, they tend to be more confident in
conveying their ideas, both in writing and orally. This self-confidence is
important in many aspects of academic and professional life, because it allows
individuals to be more willing to take risks in thinking critically and creatively.
As a result, students who are skilled at writing and arguing tend to achieve
better academic results and are better prepared to face future challenges.
Overall, the application of syntactic argumentation analysis has a very
positive impact on students' writing skills. With a deeper understanding of how
sentences are formed and how arguments are constructed, students become not
only better writers but also more effective communicators. These benefits are
not only limited to academic achievement, but also prepare them for success in
various areas of life, from professional careers to daily social interactions.

C. The Role Of Natural Language Processing Software In Identifying And

Correcting Syntactic Errors In Text
1. Introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP) Software

Natural Language Processing (NLP) software encompasses a diverse array

of technologies designed to analyze, understand, and manipulate human
language. These tools, built on advanced algorithms and machine learning
models, can process vast amounts of textual data to extract meaningful patterns
and insights. In the realm of writing, NLP tools like Grammarly and Turnitin
serve as automated assistants that provide feedback on various aspects of text,
particularly focusing on syntactic accuracy. These tools analyze sentence
structure, grammar, and punctuation to help writers produce clear and error-
free documents. The utility of NLP in writing is profound as it aids in ensuring
the text adheres to standard language norms, which is crucial for academic and
professional communication.

9
 Grammarly, for instance, offers real-time suggestions on grammar, style,
tone, and even the overall readability of the text. It scans the text for potential
errors and provides recommendations for corrections, making it easier for
writers to enhance their documents before final submission. Turnitin, on the
other hand, is widely used in academic settings for its plagiarism detection
capabilities. By comparing a submitted text against a vast database of academic
papers, web content, and other texts, Turnitin identifies potential instances of
plagiarism, helping to maintain academic integrity. Both of these tools
exemplify how NLP can be leveraged to improve the quality and originality of
writing.
The significance of NLP in writing is further underscored by its ability to
identify and suggest corrections for complex syntactic issues that might escape
human reviewers. According to Manning and Schütze (1999), NLP is a
powerful tool for enhancing writing quality because it provides a systematic
approach to identifying errors36. Human reviewers, while knowledgeable, can
be inconsistent due to fatigue or bias, but NLP tools maintain a high level of
consistency and accuracy. This capability is particularly beneficial in academic
writing, where precise language and adherence to formal standards are
paramount.

Moreover, NLP software's role in academic writing extends beyond mere

error correction. It contributes to the refinement of text by offering insights into
stylistic and structural improvements. For example, it can suggest more concise
ways to phrase sentences or offer alternatives to overused words, thereby
enhancing the overall readability and impact of the text. The continuous
advancements in NLP technologies mean that these tools are becoming
increasingly sophisticated, offering deeper and more nuanced analysis of
language, which is invaluable for writers striving to produce high-quality
academic work.

2. Benefits and Limitations of NLP Software

The primary benefit of NLP software in academic writing is its ability to
provide immediate, objective feedback on syntactic errors. This feature is
particularly advantageous for students and professionals who need to produce
error-free documents under time constraints. By highlighting grammatical
mistakes, awkward phrasing, and punctuation errors instantly, NLP tools allow
writers to make timely corrections, ensuring that their work is polished before
submission. This immediate feedback loop is essential for improving writing

36
Manning, C. D., & Schütze, H. (1999). Foundations of Statistical Natural Language Processing.
Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

10
 efficiency and accuracy, as it helps writers to address issues as they arise, rather
than retrospectively.

Additionally, many NLP tools are equipped with educational features that
help users understand the rationale behind the suggested changes. For instance,
Grammarly not only points out errors but also provides detailed explanations
and examples, fostering a deeper understanding of grammar rules and writing
conventions. This educational aspect of NLP software promotes long-term
improvement in writing skills, as users learn from their mistakes and internalize
the correct usage over time. The consistent use of such tools can lead to a
marked improvement in writing proficiency, which is particularly beneficial
for non-native English speakers or individuals with limited formal training in
writing.
However, despite these benefits, NLP software has its limitations. One of
the main challenges is its difficulty in handling nuanced language use and
contextual understanding. While NLP algorithms have made significant strides
in recent years, they still struggle with interpreting the subtleties and
complexities of human language. For example, idiomatic expressions, sarcasm,
and cultural references can be misinterpreted by NLP tools, leading to incorrect
or irrelevant suggestions. This limitation highlights the need for human
oversight, as human reviewers can better understand the context and intent
behind the text, making more informed judgments.
Studies by Burstein et al. (2003) emphasize that while NLP tools are
valuable aids, they are most effective when used in conjunction with human
judgment and instruction37. Human reviewers bring a level of insight and
contextual awareness that NLP tools currently lack. Therefore, the best
approach to utilizing NLP in academic writing is a hybrid one, where
automated tools are used to identify and correct basic errors, while human
reviewers provide more nuanced feedback and guidance. This combined
approach ensures that the strengths of both NLP software and human expertise
are leveraged, resulting in a more thorough and accurate review process.
D. Effective A Syntax-Based Learning Approach In Improving Argument
Writing Skills Among Students
1. Designing a Syntax-Based Learning Approach
A syntax-based learning approach emphasizes teaching students the
fundamental principles of sentence structure and their application in argument
writing. This method is grounded in the belief that a deep understanding of

37
Burstein, J., Leacock, C., & Chodorow, M. (2003). Automated essay evaluation: The Criterion
online writing service. AI Magazine, 25(3), 27-36.

11
 syntax—how words and phrases are arranged to create well-formed
sentences—can significantly enhance a student's writing skills. Explicit
instruction on various syntactic forms, such as simple, compound, complex,
and compound-complex sentences, is crucial. Teachers can illustrate how
different sentence structures can affect the clarity and persuasiveness of written
arguments. By breaking down complex sentences and analyzing their
components, students can learn to construct sentences that convey their ideas
more effectively.
To implement this approach, educators can design curricula that include a
variety of syntactic exercises tailored to different proficiency levels. These
exercises might involve sentence combining, where students practice creating
complex sentences from simpler ones, and sentence deconstruction, where they
break down complex sentences to understand their structure. Writing
assignments can be crafted to focus specifically on using diverse sentence
structures to achieve specific rhetorical effects. For instance, students might be
tasked with writing a persuasive essay that strategically employs parallelism to
enhance the rhythm and emphasis of their arguments.
In addition to exercises and writing assignments, incorporating peer review
sessions can be highly beneficial. During these sessions, students can provide
feedback on each other's use of syntax, fostering a collaborative learning
environment where they learn from each other's strengths and weaknesses. This
peer interaction can also encourage students to reflect more critically on their
own writing and develop a more nuanced understanding of syntactic choices.
Teachers can guide these sessions by providing specific criteria for evaluating
syntax, such as variety, clarity, and effectiveness in supporting the overall
argument.
The theoretical underpinnings of this approach are supported by educational
research. According to Weaver (1996), syntax-based learning helps students
develop a stronger grasp of language mechanics, which is essential for
constructing persuasive and well-organized arguments38. By focusing on the
building blocks of language, students can gain greater control over their
writing, leading to more effective communication. This approach aligns with
the broader goal of writing instruction, which is to equip students with the skills
they need to articulate their ideas clearly and convincingly.
2. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Syntax-Based Learning
Evaluating the effectiveness of a syntax-based learning approach involves
both qualitative and quantitative measures. Pre- and post-instruction
assessments are a common quantitative method to gauge improvements in

38
Weaver, C. (1996). Teaching grammar in the context of writing. English Journal, 85(7), 15-24.

12
 writing skills. These assessments can be designed to measure specific aspects
of syntax, such as the variety and accuracy of sentence structures used by
students. By comparing the results of these assessments, educators can identify
whether students have made measurable progress in their syntactic abilities.
This data-driven approach provides a clear picture of the impact of syntax-
based instruction on student writing proficiency.
Writing portfolios offer a more holistic and qualitative way to evaluate
student progress. By compiling a selection of their writing over time, students
can demonstrate their development in using varied and complex sentence
structures. Teachers can review these portfolios to assess improvements in
syntax and the overall effectiveness of arguments. Portfolios also allow for
reflection and self-assessment, as students can see their own growth and
identify areas for further improvement. This reflective practice is integral to
developing lifelong writing skills and a deeper understanding of language
mechanics.
Student feedback is another valuable tool for evaluating the effectiveness of
syntax-based learning. Surveys and interviews can provide insights into how
students perceive their own progress and the impact of syntactic instruction on
their writing confidence and abilities. Feedback can highlight areas where
students feel they need more support or where instructional methods could be
improved. Engaging students in this evaluative process fosters a sense of
ownership over their learning and can lead to more targeted and effective
teaching strategies.
Research supports the positive impact of syntax-based instruction on writing
proficiency. Hillocks (1986) found that students who receive focused
instruction on syntax show significant gains in their ability to formulate and
support arguments. These findings underscore the importance of syntax in
developing strong writing skills39. By continuously assessing and refining
syntax-based curricula, educators can ensure that their teaching methods
remain effective and responsive to student needs. This ongoing evaluation
helps create a dynamic and supportive learning environment where students
can thrive as confident and competent writers.

39
Hillocks, G. (1986). Research on written composition: New directions for teaching. Urbana, IL:
National Council of Teachers of English.

13
 CHAPTER III
CLOSING
A. Conclution
Overall, syntactic argumentation analysis provides an in-depth look at how
language structure shapes and strengthens arguments in academic texts. Using
appropriate syntactic structures can increase the clarity, coherence, and
persuasiveness of writing. Additionally, applying syntactic analysis in educational
contexts helps students develop better writing skills, by understanding how
sentence elements interact to convey clear and convincing meaning. The role of
natural language processing (NLP) software is also critical in identifying and
correcting syntactic errors, which supports efforts to improve the quality of
academic writing. A syntax-based learning approach, which emphasizes a deep
understanding of sentence structure, has proven effective in improving argument
writing skills among students.

B. Implications
The implications of this paper indicate that more in-depth teaching and learning
of syntax should be integrated into educational curricula, especially in language
and communication subjects. The use of NLP tools as automatic assistants in
providing immediate feedback should also be considered to increase the efficiency
and effectiveness of the writing learning process. In addition, an approach that
focuses on the analysis and application of syntactic structures can help students not
only in academic contexts but also in their professional lives, where the ability to
communicate clearly and convincingly is highly valued. Thus, investment in
curriculum development that combines syntactic theory and NLP technology can
produce more competent and confident writers, ready to face the communication
challenges of the future.

14
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