Research Matters

Figure 14: Missing stops
7
6
5
Mean No.
4
3
2
1
0
G F E D C B A A*
Grade
2004 2007 2014
This data could not be compared with that from earlier phases of the Aspects of Writing study,
because the nature of the original ‘single sentence’ method used for the 1980, 1993 and 1994
sample precluded the collection of this data.
Comma splices
Comma splices occur when writers use a comma in place of a full stop to join two independent
clauses/sentences. Figure 15 shows generally fewer instances of comma splice occurring in the
2014 sample compared to previous studies. For lower attaining students in 2014, the rate of
comma splices fell.This could indicate a decrease in the use of punctuation generally in the writing
samples, or a better understanding of how commas should/should not be used.
Figure 16 shows the data from previous phases of the study, for comparison.This data cannot be
displayed upon the same graph, because the nature of the data collection was different to the
previous years.
Commas
Figure 17 shows that correct use of commas increased in line with levels of attainment.The trend
here has also stayed stable over the three phases of the study, although 2014 showed a slight dip in
the mid-range group.
Data from previous studies is shown in Figure 18 on page 30.This cannot be displayed upon the
same graph, because the nature of the data collection was different to the previous years.
Overall, there were fewer instances of omitted commas in 2014 than in 2004 and 2007 (Figure 19,
page 30).As in previous studies, the pattern followed attainment levels, with omitted commas
occurring less frequently among higher attaining students.
Figure 20 on page 30 shows data from previous studies.This cannot be displayed upon the same
graph, because the nature of the data collection was different in the previous years.
28 | RESEARCH MATTERS – SPECIAL ISSUE 4: Aspects of Writing 1980–2014