EXPANDED LITERATURE REVIEW ON SECOND LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

Abstract

This expanded literature review explores three quantitative studies that examine key factors influencing second language (L2) proficiency: cognitive aptitude, interactional competence, and learner autonomy. Santizo (2017) investigates the relationship between language aptitude and oral proficiency across four languages, revealing that this correlation varies depending on language complexity. Roever and Ikeda (2020) examine interactional competence, emphasizing its crucial role in managing conversations and enhancing overall communicative proficiency. Faiz (2020) explores learner autonomy, finding a strong positive correlation between independent learning and success in Arabic reading and listening. Together, these studies demonstrate that successful language acquisition depends on the integration of cognitive abilities, social communication skills, and self-directed learning. The review also reflects on the use of reporting verbs, hedges, and boosters to convey degrees of certainty and emphasis in academic writing, following Hyland’s (2008) framework. This analysis highlights how linguistic choices in academic discourse contribute to clarity, balance, and precision in presenting research findings.