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In:Research Methods in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory Approaches to Second Language Development
Edited by Wander Lowie, Rosmawati and Vanessa De Wilde
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 14] 2025
► pp. 191–215

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Chapter 10
Using a multifractal analysis approach to explore (multi)fractality in L2 writing in English

 | Singapore Institute of Technology
 | Singapore Institute of Technology
Published online: 11 September 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.14.10ros
Abstract
CDST considers language as a fractal object. In line with Rosmawati and Lowie’s (2024) argument about the multifractal nature of syntactic structures in L1 English, we hypothesize that the distribution of syntactic structures in L2 English texts is also multifractal. In this chapter, we will use multifractal analysis to look at the distribution of the Finite Verb Phrases, the Noun Phrases, and the Head Nouns in L2 English texts produced by beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners. While our hypothesis about multifractality was confirmed, our results interestingly showed that the more advanced (hence more complex) language output does not necessarily translate to a higher fractal dimension (a more complex fractal structure) in terms of the distribution of syntactic structures in L2 English texts.
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Fractals
    • Fractals as a mathematical concept
    • Fractals in real life
    • Fractals in language
    • Fractals and Complex Dynamics System Theory
    • Multifractal analysis
  • The study: Exploring multifractality in L2 writing in English
    • Data sets
    • Multifractal analysis: Step-by-step application
    • Results and discussion
  • Reflections on affordances and limitations of the approach
  • Suggestions for future implementation
  • Conclusion
  • Note
  • References
References (50)
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