On spelling behavio(u)r: A corpus-based study of advanced EFL learners’ preferred variety of English

Abstract

The present study investigates variation in spelling based on British versus American English norms in the writing of university students in Sweden, Bulgaria and Italy. It also examines to what extent the students are consistent in their choice of variety. The corpus material on which the study is based allows for investigation of possible changes over time, across student levels and across nations. Contrary to findings of previous studies, the results reveal a clear preference for British English spelling for all the investigated subcorpora. The students are generally consistent in their use of one variety.