21 verbs could actually be replaced by compound hedges and modal auxiliary verbs while
introductory phrase could also be replaced by modal lexical verb. The application of the hedges depends on the style of writing of the author. Thus, I narrowed down the
missing hedged into the three lexical items only according to what hedges I believe should suit the statement best. The three lexeme, I believe have the most significance
in the strength of the st udents’ propositions.
2.1 No Approximators
Although approximators are the most used hedges in the students writing. Some students forgot to apply one in some of their propositions. 8 out of 26 problematic
sentences or 30.77 of the problematic sentences are those without approximators.
Example: Student 8
:
“Since Native English teacher [did] not have experience of learning English as their second language, they [were] weak
, …”
Student 13 :
“It is not only English native speakers do that, but every native
speakers of their mother tongue [do] that.”
2.2 No Introductory Phrases
Introductory phrases is considered important because by applying them on the propositions helps readers recognize that it was the students’ idea or own words. Modal
lexical verbs such as believe, assume, or argues which usually collocate to the pronouns used by the students. It also helps readers recognize the certainty of their statements.
However, some students are still missing this particular lexical item functions as hedging device on their statements. 11 sentences or about 42.30 of the problematic
sentences are found without introductory phrases.
Example:
22
Student 3 :
“While NESTs not really pay attention in grammar, NNESTs give more detail in correcting the grammar.”
Student 8 :
“NNESTs are better in reading and speaking skills, and also grammar because they learn it, unlike NESTs who get it unconsciously.”
2.3 No Adjectival, Adverbial, Nominal Modal Phrase
Another missing hedges are adjectival, adverbial, nominal modal phrase. About 26.92 or 7 out of 26 sentences are found without this particular hedges. The students
seems to have limited vocabulary register relating to adjectival, adverbial, nominal modal phrase seeing that this particular lexical items were used less and when it could
actually be inserted in their statements.
Example: Student 2:
They have already read the book related to the material discussion in every meeting.
Student 4: Beside non-native English speaker teachers have more knowledge in
teaching English as foreign language; they also always do better preparation in teaching English in classroom.
3. Implication of the Missing of Hedges in Students ’ Writing
The following are some problems caused by the missing hedges. This also helps to describe the significance of hedging as an academic writing tool. I categorized the
implication of the problematic sentences in previous discussion into two kinds which are overgeneralization and reliability issues.
