Spelling Errors in the Essay Writing of Malay Language by Lun Bawang Ethnic Students

This study aims to identify common spelling mistakes made by Lun Bawang students. Data was collected through the analysis of 52 essays by level 2 students from a rural school in Lawas District, Sarawak state. The essays were analysed using the Content Analysis method. The findings reveal a total of 198 spelling mistakes, including the addition, deletion, and replacement of letters in both derived and base words. Additionally, the study found that students often confuse words that should be spelled together or separately, show insensitivity to the use of uppercase and lowercase letters, and mix up the letters 'b' and 'd'. The study suggests several strategies to reduce spelling errors in students' writing.