Writing

Writing is a very important part of communication. In many ways it is through writing that we can best express ourselves. Two main forms are structured writing exercises and creative writing exercises. Though structured writing exercises are helpful, free and creative writing should be highly encouraged.　It is helpful for both the students and the teacher:　

• Students are not limited by shyness (as when speaking).
• Students are forced to use vocabulary, correct spelling, grammar patterns, punctuation, and structure. (Be sure to encourage students to use the English they already know.)
• It is easy for the teacher to evaluate the English proficiency of the writer.
• Students get an indication of their own ability.
• Students can use dictionaries to learn extra expressions. (Caution: don’t let students use the dictionary to look up every word. Dictionary use should be kept to a minimum.
• Students get practice expressing themselves and their ideas.
• It encourages use of their imagination. Students are able to write about what interests them. (i.e. clubs, boyfriends, girlfriends, music, movies, etc.)
• If students can write effective English, then they can speak English. Both skills are 'output' functions.

　

To encourage creative writing, choose topics that are interesting (e.g. "My Favorite Singer” or “If I had One Million Dollars”).　Of course, write encouraging comments so that students will be proud of their work.　By giving your class regular writing tasks, their ability will gradually improve.　

Here are some suggested writing activities:

Writing Activities

• Diaries or journals collected regularly
• Compositions (suggest a new topic every 2 weeks)
• Write an English newsletter.
• Class or sports reports in English.
• Essay contests with prizes.
• Make books or comics in pairs or groups.

A Note on Translation

Changing Japanese into English is not writing.　It's merely translation.　Answering a question by rewriting the passage onto the answer sheet is not writing, either.　That's only copying.

　

Most students have few chances to write freely in English.　Even SHS composition classes are often devoted to translation.　Without free or creative writing practice, students cannot gain competence at written expression!

　 　

back

next